Two wins for the Aces - by Gianni PascucciThe ABA # 6 ranked Las Vegas Aces had two very tough 'come from behind' wins versus the #14 ranked San Diego Sol on January 19 and 20. The Aces won the first game on Wednesday 102-92. The Sol was in control for the first 3 periods led by John Clark (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) and Richard Williams (5'10''-G-87, college: San Diego St.) sharp shooting and penetrations. The fourth period was a different ball game and the Aces outscored the Sol 32-19. The leading scorers for both team was for the Sol John Clark with 25 points and Richard Williams with 18. For the Aces Michael Johnson (6'0''-G-76, college: Oklahoma) led the way at 30 pts, Lou Kelly (6'5''-G/F-79, college: UNLV) added 17. The second game on Thursday was much more the same. The San Diego Sol continued their quick burst on out scoring the Aces in the 1st period 35-23. The 2nd and 3rd period were much the same, and the Sol continued to control the ball game. But just like the first game, the Las Vegas Aces took over the fourth period and out scored the Sol 40-22 in the last partial. The final score was 119-111 and leading scorers for the Aces were Lou Kelly, who ended tha game at 50 points (!!) and Michael Johnson, who added 34 points. At the Sol side, Richard Williams scored 26 pts and Matt Vaughn (6'0''-G-83, college: Colorado Christian) 25.

Mavericks defeat Gulf Coast on the road - by Gianni PascucciThe #1 ranked Southeast Texas Mavericks defeated the #20 Gulf Coast Flash in Gulfport, MS on Wednesday night, 103-85. The Flash were undefeated heading into the game at home and that included a home victory over the Mavericks back in December, which is the only loss of the season for SETX. The Mavs came out firing on all cylinders and opened up a 9-2 lead as Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: IUPUI) and Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman) got things going with early baskets. SETX maintained control of the game throughout the early going to take a 21-16 lead after one period of play. The second quarter belonged to the Flash as their physical play allowed them to score easy baskets. Luther Suggs (F/G) and Freeman Taylor (6'6''-F-81, college: Robert Morris) led the way for Gulf Coast and the Flash led 41-38 at the half. The Mavericks came out of the locker-room at halftime and blew the game open. The Mavs full-court pressure proved to be too much for the Flash as Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M) and the other SETX players seized control of the game. The Mavericks took a 73-57 lead into the final period of play. In the last quarter the teams exchanged baskets and Southeast Texas fought off two Gulf Coast Flash runs (one run cutting the lead to just 8 points with 3:56 left to play). But key baskets by Rogers, Davis, Bradley, and newcomer P.J. Couisnard (6'4''-G/F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Wichita St.) sealed the Mavericks' 16th win of the season and avenged their only defeat. The Mavericks were led in scoring by Jon Rogers (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.) 25 points. Bradley, who is establishing himself as a legitimate ABA MVP Candidate added 22 points. Newcomer Brandon Davis (6'7''-F/C, college: S.Alabama) chipped 12 points and 9 rebounds. Lamar Sanders (6'6''-F-84, college: Lamar) was the game's leading rebounder with10 rebounds. The Flash were led by Luther Suggs 16 and Freeman Taylor 's 12 points respectively. The Mavericks return home to their Nutty Jerry's Entertainment Center (NJEC) next week when they host a home stand on Thursday and Saturday. They will play the North Dallas Vandals on Thursday and the Gulf Coast Flash on Saturday. Both games are scheduled to tip-off at 7:30 PM.

Suns Roster Released - by Justin MooreThe Tri City Suns have released there roster as they get geared up for there debut this weekend with a nice group with some pro stand outs look out for the suns this weekend as they host the Beltway bombers.

Afrobasket 2011: Armando Costa ready for the competition - by Olusegun Ikuesan1 de Agosto basketball player Armando Costa, on Tuesday here said he is ready to play at the African Championship of Basketball (Afrobasket2011), after an injury that lasted six months.

Speaking to ANGOP, while watching the game between 1 de Agosto and Recreativo do Libolo, he said he is totally recovered from the surgery and he only needs to restore the physical condition.

'I have returned to play and not for recovery works. I am available to play already for 1 de Agosto and the national team, but everything will depend on the coach's option', he explained.

The player said that his recovery after the surgery happened in Portugal, where he was until last Saturday, after which he returned to Angola.

Armando Costa, 27, got injured at the final of the 2010 Angola Cup of Basketball, in a game against Recreativo do Libolo.

Cocodrilos finished their Liga Americas campaign with a loud bang. They knocked down Sionista eliminating the Argentinean team from the tournament. Both teams finished Group D action at 1-2 record and failed to reach the next stage. Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) came up with 20 points to lead the Venezuelan team. The teams looked well-matched in the first half. The first period ended in an 18:18 draw. Cocodrilos pulled ahead late in the second term to post a 39:37 lead. Sionista did not allow their opponents to run away as they trailed by a single point heading into the fourth term. But Cocodrilos used a 10:0 run in the fourth term to clear off. Sionista failed to respond and had to surrender at the end. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) tallied 15 points and 15 boards for Cocodrilos. Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84, college: S.Carolina) finished with 9 points in the win. Cleotis Brown (198-G/F-77, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Illinois) produced 24 points for Sionista. Pedro Franco (187-G-81) added 13 points in the loss.

Carlos Delfino set to return for Bucks - by Eurobasket NewsJust one minute on the court will mean everything to Milwaukee Bucks forward Carlos Delfino (198-G-82).

And that chance could come as soon as Friday night, when the Bucks meet the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena.

Delfino practiced for the first time in more than two months on Thursday, before the Bucks headed to Ohio to face the Cavaliers. He has been sidelined with concussive symptoms since suffering several blows to the head in the first two weeks of the season.

Im pretty optimistic that tomorrow I can be at least on the bench, Delfino said following practice. I dont know if Im going to play, but at least it will be a really good feeling to put the uniform back on and to try to help.

Every single minute I get to play from now to the end of the season is going to be a present for me. For a couple moments, I was thinking I wasnt going to be able to play.

Hopefully I can help. If its 1 minute or 48, I dont care. If I can give a hand, its going to be good. Especially when we have a season full of injuries, if we can get more bodies, its going to be good.

Rice shines in Manama win - by Yousef AhmedAl Manama remained unbeaten in the main round of the Zain Bahrain Basketball Cup following a 99-71 victory over Sitra at Zain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam. New American import Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)) guided the victors last night with an impressive 40 points and 18 rebounds including six three-pointers, which proved decisive. It was the third successive win in as many games for Manama who stayed on course for reaching the best-of-three final. Manama headed into the game needing victory to move a step closer towards securing one of the top two spots in the main round and a berth in the best-of-three finals.

Under their recently-appointed american coach Jason Rabedeaux (agency: Edge Sports ) , Manama were indeed on fire as they dominated the game right from the start, taking a 7-0 lead in the early stages of the first quarter, which ended in their favour 29-12. Sitra showed composure in the second quarter and cut Manama's lead by six points and were trailing 38-49 at the interval. But Manama maintained their momentum in the third quarter and, with a combination of solid defence and accurate finishing, extended their advantage to 74-61. There was little that Sitra could do in the fourth and final quarter, which was ruled by their opponents who stretched the lead to 28 points for an enormous victory. The victory helped Manama move up two points clear in the table with six points. They are ahead of defending champions Muharraq, who are also unbeaten after two matches.

National team trio stars Mahmood Ghuloom with 15 points, Mohammed Hassan with 8 points and Ahmed Al Mutawa (199-F/C-81, agency: Low Country Sports, college: Broward CC) who scored 10 points 13 rebounds were the stars for the victors, scoring crucial points in the closing stages of the game and giving the fans a show in strong team defense.

Sitra, who suffered their second defeat in three games, watched their bid to regain the only title they had won four years ago go up in smoke. The team in red jerseys were relying on their American professional Duke Crews (203-F-88, college: Bowie St.) who managed 22 points. Meanwhile, cup action continues today with two matches in the third week, commencing at 6pm when bottom club Isa Town seek their maiden win against third-placed Al Ahli. That will be followed by what promises to be an interesting encounter between Muharraq and Al Hala at 7.45pm.

On other news, the Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA) has fined Manama Club BD1,000 and also banned the team's supporters from attending the club's next matches against Al Hala.

The decision, made due to Manama fans' dirty chants after a small riot happend during the second half of the game against Al Hala last Saturday, this was announced during the BBA's meeting, chaired by president and Parliament Member Adel Al Assomi.

Source GDN By Rami Hulayyel , Posted on Friday, January 21, 2011

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Round 15: Siauliai beats Norrkoping Dolphins by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket NewsThe fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, derby games, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most exciting game of round 15 in the Baltic League took place in Siauliai. This game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Swedish Norrkoping Dolphins (6-8) to seventh ranked Lithuanian Siauliai (8-7) 98-96 in the game for the seventh place. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 27-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Siauliai forced 19 Norrkoping Dolphins turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Norrkoping Dolphins helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for Ukrainian center Roman Gumenyuk (221-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds. American-Samoan guard Rashaun Broadus (182-84, college: BYU) contributed with 17 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Lithuanian forward Povilas Sakinis (199-80) answered with 19 points and 4 assists for Norrkoping Dolphins. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Siauliai maintains seventh place in Elite with 8-7 record. Norrkoping Dolphins lost third consecutive game. Defending Swedish champion keep the eighth position with eight games lost. Siauliai are looking forward to face TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn in the next round. Norrkoping Dolphins will have a break next round. One of the most interesting games of round 15 was a derby match between two teams from Estonia. The game took place in Tallinn wheresixth ranked Kalev/Cramo won against visiting TTU/Kalev (3-11) 73-68. It was a great evening for American center Michael Dunigan (208-89, college: Oregon, agency: N.E.T.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. Rait Keerles helped adding 13 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American-DR Congolese forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 15 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Kalev/Cramo (9-5) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain sixth place in Elite. TTU/Kalev lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 11 games lost. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn . Very important is a road loss of second ranked Lithuanian Rudupis (10-5) against sixth ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo (9-5) on Thursday night. Visiting Rudupis were defeated by Kalev/Cramo in a tough game in Tallinn 63-71. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Rudupis. It was an exceptional evening for Michael Dunigan who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Vytenis Lipkevicius came up with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds for Rudupis in the defeat. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Kalev/Cramo. They maintain sixth place in Elite with 9-5 record. Rudupis at the other side keep the second position with five games lost. They share it with TU/Rock. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn . An interesting game for Latvian VEF Riga (11-2) which hosted in Riga 3rd placed Lithuanian Nevezis (9-4). First ranked VEF Riga managed to get a 14-point victory 85-71. The best player for the winners was Dairis Bertans who scored 21 points and 4 assists. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for VEF Riga. They maintain first place in Elite with 11-2 record. Nevezis at the other side dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. VEF Riga's next round opponent will be TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn and are hoping to win another game. Baltic League top team - Latvian VEF Riga (11-2) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they beat fifth ranked Estonian TU/Rock (10-5) 87-71. It was a good game for Artsiom Parakhouski who led his team to a victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for VEF Riga. They maintain first place in Elite with 11-2 record. Defending Estonian champion TU/Rock dropped to the second position with five games lost. VEF Riga will face TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn in the next round and are hoping to win another game. TU/Rock will play at home against Rudupis (#3) in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 15: In Group B Aiscai Kaunas was beaten by Neptunas on the road 75-73. Alytus Alita lost to Juventus on its own court 78-93. In Elite Perlas unfortunately lost to Liepaja in a road game 97-98. Bottom-ranked Valmiera lost to Estonian defending champion TU/Rock at home 54-59. The most impressive performance of 15th round was 28 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists by Ashton Mitchell of Liepaja.

Challenge

Everything could happen in Klaipeda at the game between two tied teams. Both second ranked Neptunas and second-best Aiscai Kaunas had identical 6-3 record. This time Neptunas used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from Kaunas 75-73 on Tuesday night. It was a key game for the top position in Group B. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-73. Neptunas looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a good game for guard Robertas Bitinas (182-84) who led his team to a victory with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Martynas Mazeika (190-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Neptunas' coach Rytas Vaisvila used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Center Povilas Cukinas (210-83) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and guard Vytenis Jasikevicius (187-85) added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Aiscai Kaunas. Neptunas (7-3) keep a position of Group B leader. Loser Aiscai Kaunas keep the second place with four games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Aiscai Kaunas: R.Uzas 18+7reb+2ast, P.Cukinas 16+11reb+1ast, V.Jasikevicius 16+6reb+5ast, G.Kurtinaitis 9+1reb, K.Saage 8+5reb+2ast, A.Drungilas 4+5reb+1astNeptunas: M.Mazeika 16+3reb+2ast, R.Bitinas 13+8reb+3ast, V.Vasylius 11+6reb+2ast, J.Zurna 9+4ast, M.Ruikis 7+4reb+4ast, L.Bonner 7+5reb+2ast

Rather expected game when 3rd placed Alytus Alita (4-6) lost at home to first ranked Juventus (8-2) 93-78 on Tuesday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Juventus dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Alytus Alita's 34. They outrebounded Alytus Alita 40-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-89, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Aurimas Kieza (202-82, college: Hofstra, agency: Players Group) contributed with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Juventus' coach Robertas Giedraitis used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Saulius Kazevicius (189-76) answered with 22 points and 4 assists and center Saulius Dumbliauskas (203-81, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Court Side) added 22 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Alytus Alita. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Juventus maintains first place in Group B with 8-2 record. Loser Alytus Alita keeps the third position with six games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Alytus Alita: S.Kazevicius 22+3reb+4ast, S.Dumbliauskas 22+5reb, A.Birgelis 16+7reb+3ast, I.Sinkevicius 11+2reb, P.Kleiza 4+4reb+1ast, M.Silale 3+4reb+1astJuventus: V.Cepukaitis 19+12reb+4ast, A.Kieza 18+12reb+4ast, A.Vasiliauskas 17+4reb, M.Pociukonis 11+1reb, M.Prekevicius 9+2reb+1ast, A.Adomaitis 7+3reb

gschID: 120095

Elite

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Lithuanian Rudupis (10-5) against sixth ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo (9-5) on Thursday night. Visiting Rudupis were defeated by Kalev/Cramo in a tough game in Tallinn 63-71. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Rudupis. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 33-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for American center Michael Dunigan (208-89, college: Oregon, agency: N.E.T.) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Forward Rait Keerles (201-80) accounted for 9 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side. Forward Vytenis Lipkevicius (198-89) came up with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds and power forward Giedrius Jankauskas (206-81) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Rudupis in the defeat. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Kalev/Cramo. They maintain sixth place in Elite with 9-5 record. Rudupis at the other side keep the second position with five games lost. They share it with TU/Rock. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn . Top scorers:Rudupis: G.Jankauskas 14+5reb, V.Lipkevicius 10+10reb+3ast, J.Sinica 9+4reb, G.Orelikas 9+6reb+1ast, E.Dainys 7+4reb+6ast, A.Juskevicius 6+3rebKalev/Cramo: M.Dunigan 18+12reb, T.Sokk 14+4ast, G.Arbet 11+2reb, R.Keerles 9+11reb+3ast, G.Dorbek 8+5reb+2ast, R.Tamm 7+1reb+1ast

An interesting game for Latvian VEF Riga (11-2) which hosted in Riga 3rd placed Lithuanian Nevezis (9-4). First ranked VEF Riga managed to get a 14-point victory 85-71. The game was mostly controlled by VEF Riga. Nevezis managed to win fourth quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 24 personal fouls committed by Nevezis helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was swingman Dairis Bertans (192-89) who scored 21 points and 4 assists. Latvian power forward Kaspars Berzins (213-85, agency: FCM) chipped in a double-double by scoring 10 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Five VEF Riga players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Latvian forward Ernests Kalve (200-87) who recorded 14 points and 6 rebounds and center Egidijus Dimsa (205-85) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for VEF Riga. They maintain first place in Elite with 11-2 record. Nevezis at the other side dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. VEF Riga's next round opponent will be TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn and are hoping to win another game. Top scorers:Nevezis: E.Kalve 14+6reb+1ast, E.Dimsa 13+5reb+2ast, R.Alijevas 9+1reb+4ast, B.Cresnar 8+3reb+1ast, V.Cizauskas 8+3ast, P.Belevicius 6+5reb+1astVEF Riga: D.Bertans 21+3reb+4ast, A.Parakhouski 16+4reb+2ast, T.Cain 10+7reb+1ast, S.Valters 10+1reb+2ast, K.Berzins 10+11reb+4ast, K.Janicenoks 9+2reb+1ast

One of the most interesting games of round 15 was a derby match between two teams from Estonia. The game took place in Tallinn wheresixth ranked Kalev/Cramo won against visiting TTU/Kalev (3-11) 73-68. TTU/Kalev was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 26-12 third quarter run of Kalev/Cramo. TTU/Kalev was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American center Michael Dunigan (208-89, college: Oregon, agency: N.E.T.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Rait Keerles (201-80) helped adding 13 points and 8 rebounds. Four Kalev/Cramo players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American-DR Congolese forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 15 rebounds and forward Mooses Kaja (195-88) scored 16 points. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Kalev/Cramo (9-5) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain sixth place in Elite. TTU/Kalev lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 11 games lost. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn . Top scorers:TTU/Kalev: B.Osby 22+15reb+2ast, M.Kaja 16+3reb, K.Makke 10+5reb, E.Keedus 7+3reb, V.Kriisa 5+7reb+6ast, A.Arnold 4+3rebKalev/Cramo: M.Dunigan 15+10reb+1ast, G.Arbet 13+2ast, R.Keerles 13+8reb, R.Tamm 11+3reb+2ast, G.Dorbek 9+4reb, J.Toome 7+7reb+1ast

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when tenth ranked Latvian Liepaja (5-10) edged at home 9th ranked Lithuanian Perlas (5-10) 98-97 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 24-20 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 1-point victory in overtime. Perlas were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American guard Ashton Mitchell (180-88, college: Sam Houston St.) who saved his team from a defeat with 28 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Center Jurijs Aleksejevs (204-85) contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. Liepaja's coach Agris Galvanovskis used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Forward Vilmantas Dilys (208-87) answered with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 13 rebounds and guard Aidas Viskontas (185-86) added 21 points and 7 assists in the effort for Perlas. Five Liepaja and four Perlas players scored in double figures. Liepaja moved-up to ninth place in Elite, which they share with defeated Perlas. Perlas lost their third game in a row. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Perlas: V.Dilys 31+13reb, A.Viskontas 21+4reb+7ast, A.Siksnius 14+5reb, E.Bendzius 10+4reb+1ast, S.Kulvietis 7+1ast, D.Redikas 6+4reb+5astLiepaja: A.Mitchell 28+6reb+5ast, R.Vaikulis 16+5reb+2ast, J.Aleksejevs 16+8reb+2ast, P.Caldwell 12+2ast, M.Meiers 10+3reb, M.Mejeris 10+9reb+5ast

The most exciting game of round 15 in the Baltic League took place in Siauliai. This game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Swedish Norrkoping Dolphins (6-8) to seventh ranked Lithuanian Siauliai (8-7) 98-96 in the game for the seventh place. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 27-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Siauliai forced 19 Norrkoping Dolphins turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Norrkoping Dolphins helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for Ukrainian center Roman Gumenyuk (221-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds. American-Samoan guard Rashaun Broadus (182-84, college: BYU) contributed with 17 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Five Siauliai players scored in double figures. Lithuanian forward Povilas Sakinis (199-80) answered with 19 points and 4 assists and power forward Joakim Kjellbom (213-79, college: N.Arizona) added 15 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Norrkoping Dolphins. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Siauliai maintains seventh place in Elite with 8-7 record. Norrkoping Dolphins lost third consecutive game. Defending Swedish champion keep the eighth position with eight games lost. Siauliai are looking forward to face TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn in the next round. Norrkoping Dolphins will have a break next round. Top scorers:Norrkoping: P.Sakinis 19+4reb+4ast, G.Gervin 18+2reb, J.Kjellbom 15+6reb+3ast, R.Hanke 9+5reb+2ast, A.Mitchell 9+3reb+4ast, M.Lindqvist 8+2reb+1astSiauliai: R.Gumenyuk 17+11reb, R.Broadus 17+1reb+6ast, R.Edvinas 14+3reb+1ast, V.Sarakauskas 13+4reb+2ast, D.Weaver 12+2reb+3ast, M.Delas 9+4reb

Baltic League top team - Latvian VEF Riga (11-2) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they beat fifth ranked Estonian TU/Rock (10-5) 87-71. The game was mostly controlled by VEF Riga. TU/Rock managed to win second period 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VEF Riga forced 25 TU/Rock turnovers and outrebounded them 38-20 including 16 on the offensive glass. It was a good game for Belarusian center Artsiom Parakhouski (211-87, college: Radford) who led his team to a victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Montenegrin guard Bojan Bakic (197-83, agency: Alti Sport) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Georgian guard Georgi Tsintsadze (192-86) answered with 15 points and American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) added 13 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for TU/Rock. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for VEF Riga. They maintain first place in Elite with 11-2 record. Defending Estonian champion TU/Rock dropped to the second position with five games lost. VEF Riga will face TTU/Kalev (#11) in Tallinn in the next round and are hoping to win another game. TU/Rock will play at home against Rudupis (#3) in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:TU/Rock: G.Tsintsadze 15+3reb+1ast, C.Eziukwu 13+5reb, A.Paade 11, S.Sokk 11+2reb+1ast, S.Leppik 6+4reb+2ast, V.Allingu 6+2reb+1astVEF Riga: K.Janicenoks 17+2reb+2ast, A.Parakhouski 16+5reb+3ast, B.Bakic 15+7reb+1ast, T.Hughes 11+7reb+4ast, T.Cain 9+8reb+2ast, S.Valters 6+2ast

Not a big story in a game when 12th ranked Latvian Valmiera (1-15) lost at home to fifth ranked Estonian TU/Rock (10-5) 59-54 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 8 points after three quarters before their 22-9 charge, which allowed them to win the game. TU/Rock made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. It was a good game for guard Rain Veideman (192-91) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 4 steals. American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) contributed with 8 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Lithuanian forward Arturas Valeika (206-85, college: Midland CC) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds and power forward Pavels Veselovs (207-83, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Valmiera. Valmiera's coach Gatis Melderis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending Estonian champion moved-up to second place in Elite, which they share with Rudupis. Loser Valmiera stay at the bottom position with 15 games lost. TU/Rock will face Rudupis (#3) in Prienai in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Valmiera will play at home against Ventspils (#5). Top scorers:Valmiera: A.Valeika 15+13reb+2ast, P.Veselovs 14+7reb, J.Andzejevskis 8+6reb+4ast, J.Kaufmanis 6+1reb, J.Berzins 5+2reb, R.Gabrans 3+1reb+2astTU/Rock: R.Veideman 20+2reb+2ast, A.Paade 11+3reb, C.Eziukwu 8+8reb, G.Tsintsadze 7+5reb+2ast, S.Leppik 6+4reb+1ast, S.Sokk 3+2reb+2ast

gschID: 117252

Kalev/Cramo and Robert Krabbendam agree to part ways - by Eurobasket NewsRobert Krabbendam (213-C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Virginia Tech) is no longer a member of Estonian team Kalev/Cramo. Two sides agreed to part ways yesterday. Krabbendam joined the squad last summer from EclipseJet-MyGuide Amsterdam. He played 9 games in Estonian league averaging 6.1 points and 5 rebounds. He also appeared 6 times in Baltic league adding 5 ppg and 4.5 rpg. Kalev/Cramo plays in VTB United League this season, where Krabbendam registered 6.5 ppg and 2.8 rpg. As mentioned above, Robert Krabbendam arrived to Kalev from Amterdam. He played 19 games for them in Holland registering 11.2 ppg and 5.4 rpg. In EuroChallenge, he added 10.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 6 games. He was a member of Amsterdam from 2007. Robert Krabbendam is a product of the Virginia Tech University.

Balkan adds Christian Borisov - by Eurobasket NewsAnother new player has been signed by BC Balkan who has been fairly active during the last two weeks. Christian Borisov (188-G-88) is the latest signing for the team. He is the second signing for Balkan which has also inked Tsvetelin Ivanov recently. Borisov had a great season so far as a member of Dunav 2007 Rousse. He averaged 19.5 points and Balkan management was quick to act and bring in the player. He is expected to join his new teammates soon and will make his debut for Balkan in the next Round of NBL. Christian Borisov made his professional debut during 2007-2008 season as member of BC Balkan. He averaged 1.3 points in 18 games played. Following season he made a move do Dunav 2007 Rousse in search of more playing time. There he managed to establish himself as a member of starting five. Following season, he was on the move again, this time to Vidabasket. Borisov started this season as member of Dunav 2007 Rousse. In his second stint with the club he played in 10 matches and has averaged 19.5 points and 6.3 assists per match.

Levski warmed up for the derby with easy home victory - by Valentin AnguelovLevski managed easy victory in Round 15 of National Basketball League when they played at home against Chernomorets Bourgas. They led throughout the whole game and the final result of 95-61 is showing the difference of the classes between both teams. That was the win number 13 for Levski as they have 2 losses as well and are right behind the leaders on the table in premier Bulgarian league Lukoil Academic. Next week Levski will visit them in Pravets in one of the most important matches for the leading position ahead of the playoffs for current 2010/11 season.

For the winners Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78) finished with 16 points and 7 rebounds. Donald Cole added 15 points and 5 assists while Asen Velikov ended with 13 points. Two other national team players Stanislav Slaveykov and Zlatin Georgiev scored 12 and 11 points for better side in this game.

Assen Saralijski was the best scorer for Chernomorets with 16 points and he added 8 rebounds. Other basketball player for the visiting team with double digit was Simeon Naydenov, who finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds.

In the next round as we mentioned Levski will travel to play against Lukoil Academic on January. Before that, however, 'Blues' have a very important match of Balkan League on Wednesday versus OKK Belgrade.

Lamont Mack to join Lukoil Academic - by Valentin AnguelovMinutes before the end of transfer deadline Lukoil Academic added one more forward to their already loaded roster. Lamont Mack (201-F-87, college: Charlotte) is the sixth american player in Jovica Arsic team and he is coming from from AEK Athens. He will join Dominic James, Brandon Heath, Brandon Bowman, Travis Peterson and recently added Devin Green. Lukoil Academic now have overall eight foreign players (plus Macedonian Damjan Stojanovski and Croatian Bruno Sundov) but can only fit six of them for every single game in Bulgarian national league.

Mack was born in 1987 and in 2009 he signed with the Greek team AEK. For his first season he played 24 matches and has an average of 8.6 points and 4.3 rebounds. Mack started again this season in AEK and played 13 games. He averaged 9.7 points and 3.5 rebounds for 21.7 minutes in the Greek League.

Mack graduated from University of Charlotte, North Carolina, where in 31 matches in his last year had 15.2 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Beside domestic league Mack will help Lukoil Academic in FIBA Eurochallenge tournament where Bulgarians are one of the favorite to win their group ahead of elimination round later this season. As far as we know there is no limitations of foreign players in that tournament.

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CHINA

Xinjiang, Dongguan Keep Rolling - by Arthur VolbertZhang QingPeng (189-G-81) scored 22 points as Xinjiang remained undefeated by swamping Beijing 105-85. Xinjiang outscored Beijing 31-13 in the second quarter to gain most of its margin for victory. James Singleton had 21 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists. Quincy Douby had 21 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Xu Guozhong had 17 points and 7 rebounds. Mengke Bateer and Xirelijiang (Co Tal) each scored 10. Xinjiang keeps winning because of how well it integrates its native players with its imports. Randolph Morris had 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Beijing. Zaid Abbas had 20 points and 13 rebounds. Chen Lei and new import Joe Crawford each scored 17.

Dongguan outscored Jiangsu 29-13 in the fourth quarter, when only one import can be used, to edge Jiangsu 89-87. Dongguan's record is now 17-2. Josh Akognon had 28 points and 5 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 20 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Zhang Kai had 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Qiu Biao had 12 points and 6 rebounds. Antoine Wright scored 24 for Jiangsu. Jerome Moiso had 20 points and 15 rebounds. Tang Zhengdong had 14 points and 10 rebounds. Yi Li and Meng Da each scored 10. Hu Xuefeng had 9 assists and 9 steals but only scored 4 points as he missed all six three-pointers he took.

CBA Round 18: DongGuan Leopards edge Jiangsu Dragons by two points - by Eurobasket NewsThird-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (11-6) made lots of trouble for second ranked DongGuan Leopards (15-2) on Friday. DongGuan Leopards managed to secure only two-point victory 89-87. However their fans expected easier game. The hosts trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 29-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. DongGuan Leopards made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) who scored 20 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) chipped in 28 points and 5 rebounds. DongGuan Leopards' coach Brian Goorjian used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was French power forward Jerome Moiso (208-78, college: UCLA) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds. DongGuan Leopards maintains second position with 15-2 record having just two points less than leader Xinjiang. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side dropped to the fourth place with six games lost. They share the position with Zhejiang G.L.. DongGuan Leopards are looking forward to face Bayi Fubang (#7) in Ningbo in the next round where they are favorite. Jiangsu Dragons will play on the road against Zhejiang Cyclones in Hangzhou and are hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Undefeated leader Xinjiang Flying Tige delivered the seventeenth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 6th ranked Beijing Ducks (10-7) 105-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Beijing Ducks. It was a good game for American forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists. Quincy Douby contributed with 21 points and 4 assists for the winners. Jordanian forward Zaid Abbaas (203-83) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds for Beijing Ducks. Beijing Ducks' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Undefeated Xinjiang Flying Tige (17-0) have an impressive 17-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 17 victories in a row. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the sixth place with seven games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#10) in Jinan and hope to get back on the winning track. Sixteenth-ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (3-14) made lots of trouble for fifth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (11-6) in Jinjiang on Friday. The visitors from Hangzhou managed to secure only one-point victory 101-100. However their fans expected much easier game. Peter John Ramos had a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. The best for the losing side was Andre Emmett with 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the sixteenth position with 14 games lost. They share it with TianJin R.. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will meet higher ranked Guandong Tigers (#3) in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Fujian SBS XunXin will play against Liaoning Hunters (#9) in Yingkou and hope to secure a win. We should mention about the upset which took place in Foshan, where higher ranked Bayi Fubang (9-8) lost to thirteenth ranked Foshan (6-11) in a road game 99-103. Zhun Zheng notched 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Foshan maintains thirteenth position with 6-11 record. Bayi Fubang at the other side keeps the seventh place with eight games lost. Foshan's next round opponent will be higher ranked Shanghai Sharks (#11) at home and it may be quite challenging game. An interesting game took place in Jinan, where 12th ranked Shandong Bulls (7-10) lost at home to fifteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (5-12) 91-95 on Friday. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Jameel Watkins who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 18 rebounds. Shandong Bulls' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Jilin Tigers maintains fifteenth position with 5-12 record. Loser Shandong Bulls dropped to the tenth place with ten games lost. Jilin Tigers will face higher ranked Qingdao Double Star (#8) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

Rest of the games of round 18 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Zhejiang C. were defeated by Guandong in Dongguan 104-97. Bottom-ranked TianJin R. was beaten by Shanghai at home 82-91. Liaoning lost to Qingdao DS on the opponent's court 86-92. The best stats of 18th round was 29 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists by Mike Harris of Shanghai.

Sixteenth-ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (3-14) made lots of trouble for fifth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (11-6) in Jinjiang on Friday. The visitors from Hangzhou managed to secure only one-point victory 101-100. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 30-24 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 76 of its points in the paint compared to Fujian SBS XunXin's 52. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) had a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Tre Kelley (182-85, college: S.Carolina) chipped in 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American swingman Andre Emmett (196-82, college: Texas Tech) with 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import center Dwayne Jones (211-83, college: St.Joseph's) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds. Five Zhejiang Guangsha Lions and four Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the sixteenth position with 14 games lost. They share it with TianJin R.. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will meet higher ranked Guandong Tigers (#3) in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Fujian SBS XunXin will play against Liaoning Hunters (#9) in Yingkou and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Zhejiang G.L.: R.Peter John 34+14reb+3ast, K.Tre 17+6reb+4ast, L.Chih-Chieh 15+3reb+3ast, W.Bo 11+1reb+6ast, Z.Wei 10+3reb+1ast, X.YuYang 8+3rebFujian: E.Andre 25+9reb+4ast, J.Dwayne 17+14reb+2ast, G.SongLin 13+2ast, Z.TaiLong 13+1reb+1ast, G.Lei 13+5reb, L.XiaoMing 9+3reb+9ast

There was no surprise in Dongguan where 11th ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (7-10) were defeated by fourth ranked Guandong Tigers (12-5) 104-97 on Friday. Zhejiang Cyclones trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 28-22 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 97-104 at the end of the game. Guandong Tigers made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Marcus Haislip (207-80, college: Tennessee) who scored 25 points and 8 rebounds. International swingman ShiPeng Wang (197-83) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: ZAG Advocates) who recorded 34 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) added 20 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Four Guandong Tigers and five Zhejiang Cyclones players scored in double figures. Guandong Tigers moved-up to third place. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones dropped to the tenth position with ten games lost. Guandong Tigers will face Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#5) in Hangzhou in the next round. Zhejiang Cyclones will play at home against Jiangsu Dragons (#4) in Nanjing. Top scorers:Guandong: H.Marcus 25+8reb, W.ShiPeng 16+9reb+2ast, H.Lester 15+7reb+5ast, H.Dong 13+4reb+1ast, Z.FangYu 10+2reb+1ast, L.XiaoYu 9+1reb+2astZhejiang C.: W.Marcus 34+6reb+4ast, B.Josh 20+10reb+1ast, Z.Chunjun 14+1reb+1ast, D.Jinhui 12+9reb+2ast, W.DaYong 11+5reb+2ast, Z.Dayu 6+4reb

We should mention about the upset which took place in Foshan, where higher ranked Bayi Fubang (9-8) lost to thirteenth ranked Foshan (6-11) in a road game 99-103. The hosts were already 13 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 39-30 Bayi Fubang's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 103-99 at the end of the game. Foshan players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Bayi Fubang helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Center Zhun Zheng (214-92) notched 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) supported him with 19 points, 11 assists and 5 steals. Even 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists by the former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-79) did not help to save the game for Bayi Fubang. International forward Lei Wang (203-86) added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Foshan and five Bayi Fubang players scored in double figures. Foshan maintains thirteenth position with 6-11 record. Bayi Fubang at the other side keeps the seventh place with eight games lost. Foshan's next round opponent will be higher ranked Shanghai Sharks (#11) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Top scorers:Foshan: Z.Zhun 33+9reb+2ast, M.Stephon 19+3reb+11ast, Y.Wenbo 17+6reb+4ast, Z.Yong-gang 17+4reb+2ast, O.Olumide 6+9reb+2ast, L.Ke 5+1rebBayi: W.ZhiZhi 24+6reb+4ast, W.Lei 18+7reb+5ast, Z.Bo 15+1reb+2ast, H.Ke 12+3reb+1ast, Z.Chengyu 12+3reb+3ast, L.Ke 9+2reb

An interesting game took place in Jinan, where 12th ranked Shandong Bulls (7-10) lost at home to fifteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (5-12) 91-95 on Friday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 29-22 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Shandong Bulls were plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 18 rebounds. Swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) chipped in 36 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) who recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) added 19 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals respectively. Four Shandong Bulls players scored in double figures. Shandong Bulls' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Jilin Tigers maintains fifteenth position with 5-12 record. Loser Shandong Bulls dropped to the tenth place with ten games lost. Jilin Tigers will face higher ranked Qingdao Double Star (#8) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Top scorers:Jilin: P.Tim 36+8reb+1ast, W.Jameel 25+18reb+3ast, L.Wei 12+2ast, Y.Shulong 9+2reb+1ast, Z.Cheng 6+6reb+2ast, L.Xudong 4+2reb+1astShandong: W.Rodney 21+13reb+6ast, A.Myron 19+5reb+7ast, S.Jie 14+5reb+6ast, W.Ke 12+6reb, W.Gang 6+1reb, C.ZhenHua 6+3reb

No shocking result in a game in Tianjin where tenth ranked Shanghai Sharks (7-10) defeated bottom-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (3-14) 91-82 on Friday. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 27-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Shanghai Sharks looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 6 passes made by TianJin Rongcheng's players. TianJin Rongcheng was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had a double-double by scoring 29 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists. The other American import swingman Devin Green (201-82, college: Hampton) chipped in 23 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Shanghai Sharks' coach Bob Jr. Donewald allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was forward GuiJun Xu (202-80) who recorded 19 points and 8 rebounds and forward Nan Zhang (197-81) added 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Shanghai Sharks maintains tenth position with 7-10 record, which they share with Shandong and Zhejiang C. TianJin Rongcheng lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 14 games lost. Shanghai Sharks will face Foshan (#13) on the road in the next round. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Shanxi Zhongyu (#14) in Taiyuan. Top scorers:Shanghai: H.Mike 29+17reb+4ast, G.Devin 23+8reb+5ast, L.Wei 13+5reb+5ast, L.Ziqui 10+5reb+2ast, P.Fei 9+4reb+4ast, W.Yang 4+5rebTianJin R.: X.GuiJun 19+8reb, 16+6reb, Z.Nan 14+8reb+4ast, L.Herve 10+8reb, B.Lee 7+15reb+2ast, Z.Ji 6+1reb

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 8th ranked Liaoning Hunters (8-9) were defeated on the road by ninth ranked Qingdao Double Star (8-9) 92-86 on Friday. Liaoning Hunters were trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 24-15 charge of Qingdao Double Star, which allowed them to win the game. Liaoning Hunters were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) who had a double-double by scoring 28 points and 15 rebounds. Forward Yan Lu (200-81) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists. Qingdao Double Star's coach Weili Wang allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Tian-ju He (203-90) who recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and center Dejun Han (215-89) added 24 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Qingdao Double Star moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Liaoning. Liaoning Hunters lost third consecutive game. Qingdao Double Star will face Jilin Tigers (#15) in Changchun in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Top scorers:Qingdao DS: G.Charles 28+15reb+1ast, C.Kai 19, L.Yan 14+3reb+4ast, S.Shengyue 12+3reb+5ast, C.Liang 7+3reb, A.Zaid 5+4rebLiaoning: H.Dejun 24+5reb, H.Tian-ju 21+10reb+2ast, G.Ailun 13+2reb+6ast, 10+5reb+4ast, B.Qiang 8+1reb, L.Xiaoxu 6+12reb+1ast

Third-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (11-6) made lots of trouble for second ranked DongGuan Leopards (15-2) on Friday. DongGuan Leopards managed to secure only two-point victory 89-87. However their fans expected easier game. The hosts trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 29-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. DongGuan Leopards made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) who scored 20 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) chipped in 28 points and 5 rebounds. DongGuan Leopards' coach Brian Goorjian used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was French power forward Jerome Moiso (208-78, college: UCLA) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds and American swingman Antoine Wright (201-84, college: Texas A&M) added 24 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. DongGuan Leopards maintains second position with 15-2 record having just two points less than leader Xinjiang. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side dropped to the fourth place with six games lost. They share the position with Zhejiang G.L.. DongGuan Leopards are looking forward to face Bayi Fubang (#7) in Ningbo in the next round where they are favorite. Jiangsu Dragons will play on the road against Zhejiang Cyclones in Hangzhou and are hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Top scorers:DongGuan: A.Josh-Emmanuel 28+5reb, V.Jackson 20+9reb+7ast, Z.Kai 15+8reb+5ast, Q.Biao 12+6reb+1ast, P.Duo 5+3reb+1ast, S.Zhe 5+3rebJiangsu: W.Antoine 24+5reb, M.Jerome 20+15reb+1ast, T.ZhengDong 14+10reb, M.Da 10+1reb+2ast, Y.Li 10+2reb+2ast, H.XueFeng 4+5reb+9ast

Undefeated leader Xinjiang Flying Tige delivered the seventeenth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 6th ranked Beijing Ducks (10-7) 105-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Beijing Ducks. The game was mostly controlled by Xinjiang Flying Tige. Beijing Ducks managed to win fourth quarter 24-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists. The other American import guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) contributed with 21 points and 4 assists for the winners. Jordanian forward Zaid Abbaas (203-83) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) added 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Beijing Ducks. Five Xinjiang Flying Tige and four Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. Beijing Ducks' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Xinjiang Flying Tige (17-0) have an impressive 17-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 17 victories in a row. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the sixth place with seven games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#10) in Jinan and hope to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Xinjiang: Z.QingPeng 22+2reb+2ast, S.James 21+17reb+5ast, D.Quincy 21+4reb+4ast, X.GuoChong 17+7reb+2ast, M.Bateer 10+5reb+4ast, C.Tal 10+2reb+2astBeijing: M.Randolph 22+7reb+4ast, A.Zaid 20+13reb+1ast, C.Joe 17+4reb+1ast, C.Lei 17+1reb+2ast, W.Xiaohui 3, L.Hsueh-Lin 2+3reb+4ast

Zoran Vrkic moves to Greece - by Eurobasket NewsZoran Vrkic (200-G-87) is set to continue his career in Greece. Vrkic has agreed a deal with Peristeri who is currently in 8th place in Greek A1 league. Young Croatian player has started this season as a member of Union Olimpija, which was his second stint with the club. He is expected to join his new teammates in the coming days. Zoran Vrkic started his professional career in 2004 as member of Matulji. Following season he signed a 4-year deal with Olimpija Ljubljana. In his debut season he was loaned to Postojna where in 5 games he averaged 8.4 points and 4.2 rebounds. He finished that season as member of Dubrovnik. In 2006, he was on the move again, this time singing with Sibenka, where he stayed two years. At the start of 2008-2009 season, Vrkic moved to BC Split where he averaged 5.6 points and 2.2 boards in 25 Adriatic League games. In Croatian league he made 16 appearances and has posted averages of 6.5 points and 1.8 rebounds. Last season, he averaged 13.8 points and 3.0 rebounds in 28 games. Vrkic has so far represented Croatia at youth level. In 2007, he played at the U20 European Championships in Slovenia where in 8 games he scored 4.6 points and 2.0 rebounds per contest.

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CYPRUS

Apoel advances on top! - by Dr. Nasios OrinosAn important game took place between Keravnos and Apoel on Friday night.

Even though Keravnos was close to the score, Apoel had control of the game and kept a safe lead. At the beginning of the 4th Apoel managed to take the score as much as 62-74, with Keravnos making a come back and advancing to 73-72. Apoel had a clearer mind at the end and won a significant game by 78-85.

This was not the best game we have seen in terms of quality between the two teams as it was in terms of importance.

Ian Hanavan stepped up for the guests with 20 pts, 3 rebounds and 2 steals. Buljan was also great, with 20 pts and 6 rebounds.

Lee who was back after a whole 9 weeks during which was not allowed to play, added 18 pts, grabbed 2 rebounds, gave 4 assists, and had 1 steal, while Davis helped his team with 16 pts,3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 out of a seminar block.

Tiggs added 9 pts, 8 rebounds, 1 assist and 7 steals.

This was a collective effort from a team that had passion and hunger and improves Apoel to 8-2.

Keravnos was good mainly at the 4th where it converted a minus 12 pts game to plus 1 and had Apoel been not so careful, it might have won the game.

Cummings finished the game with 22 pts, 2 rebounds and 2 assists and Stefanovic added another 13 and grabbed 4 rebounds. Garcia finished with 0 pts.

Keravnos lacked the passion and the clear mind in important times of the game. Keravnos is now 9-4.

Perhaps the most remarkable statistic in the game was the fact that the normally low-turnover Strovolians (had the best turnover average at the end of the 1st half of the league, just 11) committed 16 turnovers as opposed to 12 of Apoel.

Statistics show that Keravnos looses when it commits more turnovers than its opponent.

This compared to the fact that Apoel was very effective from the free throw line (had 21 out of 23 free throws - 91%) was the key to Apoel's victory.

Add to that the fact that Apoel was also more productive behind the 3-point line (36%) as opposed to only 22% of Keravnos.

Quarters: 19-21, 36-41, 53-62, 78-85

According to Cypriot basketball sites, Keravnos is looking to add a point-guard and a center in the team.

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DENMARK

Ligaen Round 18: Horsholm hands first loss to undefeated Bakken - by Eurobasket NewsThe most surprising game was the first loss of undefeated Bakken (17-1) in Aarhus on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by fifth ranked Horsholm (10-7) 78-69. It ended at the same time the 15-game winning streak of Bakken. Bakken trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 28-25 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Horsholm made 25-of-31 free shots (80.6 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Horsholm made 7 blocks. It was a good game for the former international power forward Jens Hakanowitz (204-80) who led his team to a victory with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks. International guard Frederik Nielsen (180-88) contributed with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners. International swingman Chris Nielsen (192-85) replied with 21 points and 7 rebounds for Bakken. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Horsholm has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 10-7 record. Bakken at the other side still keeps top place with one game lost. Horsholm are looking forward to face higher ranked Horsens IC (#4) in Horsens in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Bakken will play on the road against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals. An interesting game for Bakken (17-1) which hosted in Aarhus second-best Svendborg (15-2). First ranked Bakken managed to get a 5-point victory 73-68. American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Chris Christoffersen chipped in 10 points and 12 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Bakken have an impressive 15-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-1 record. Defending champion Svendborg keeps the second place with two games lost. Bakken will play against Naestved (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Svendborg will play against SISU in Copenhagen and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game in Aabyhoj supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Horsens IC (11-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Aabyhoj (8-11). Horsens IC smashed Aabyhoj 78-55 on Wednesday. Rickey Claitt notched 17 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds by Edward Morris did not help to save the game for Aabyhoj. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Horsens IC has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 11-8 record. Loser Aabyhoj keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Horsens IC will meet at home Horsholm (#5) in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Amager BK in Kastrup and hope to secure a win. The game between eighth ranked Vaerlose (6-12) and 9th ranked Amager BK (3-16) in Vaerlose ended with biggest points difference. Vaerlose outscored guests from Kastrup 84-54. The best player for the winners was Bonell Colas who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Newly promoted Vaerlose maintains eighth position with 6-12 record. Amager BK lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 16 games lost. Vaerlose's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Aalborg (#10) at home. Amager BK will play against Aabyhoj.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 18: Naestved smashed Amager BK on the road 87-58. Horsholm won against Aalborg on its own court 73-68. Bottom-ranked Aalborg unfortunately lost to Svendborg in a road game 75-87. SISU recorded a loss to Vaerlose at home 69-80. The most impressive performance of 18th round was 27 points and 10 rebounds by Barkley Falkner of Aalborg.

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Naestved (14-5) crushed 9th ranked Amager BK (3-16) in Kastrup 87-58. The game without a history. Naestved led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Amager BK's 26. They outrebounded Amager BK 41-26 including a 21-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was Lithuanian swingman Marius Kasiulevicius (198-82, college: Trinity Valley JC) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay (OH)) chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds. Four Naestved players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Lithuanian forward Nerijus Brasas (200-85) who recorded 22 points and swingman Peter Simonsen (185-88) added 5 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Naestved have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 14-5 record having just two points less than leader Bakken. Amager BK lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 16 games lost. Naestved's next round opponent will be league's leader Bakken in Aarhus and it will be for sure the game of the week. Amager BK will play at home against Aabyhoj (#6). Top scorers:Amager BK: N.Brasas 22+2reb+2ast, R.Larsen 7+2reb+3ast, N.Miliares 6, M.Lisby 6+5reb+2ast, M.Lingskov 5+1reb, P.Simonsen 5+5reb+5astNaestved: M.Kasiulevicius 20+11reb+5ast, L.Roberts 17+9reb, P.Johansen 15+8reb+1ast, N.Christensen 10+3reb+2ast, D.Smedley 8+3reb+8ast, M.Nielsen 5+1ast

An interesting game for Bakken (17-1) which hosted in Aarhus second-best Svendborg (15-2). First ranked Bakken managed to get a 5-point victory 73-68. The hosts were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 25-19 Svendborg's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 73-68 at the end of the game. Bakken made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game, while Svendborg only scored ten points from the stripe. Svendborg was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international center Chris Christoffersen (218-79, college: Oregon) chipped in 10 points and 12 rebounds during the contest. Four Bakken players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) with 21 points and 7 rebounds and international guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) scored 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Bakken have an impressive 15-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-1 record. Defending champion Svendborg keeps the second place with two games lost. Bakken will play against Naestved (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Svendborg will play against SISU in Copenhagen and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Svendborg: N.Iversen 21+7reb, M.Williams 15+5reb, M.Plannthin 13+5reb+4ast, C.Magaard 9+1reb+2ast, C.Cavanaugh 4+4reb, A.Darboe 3+3reb+2astBakken: M.Thuesen 18+2reb, C.Burgess 15+7reb+3ast, A.Jakobsen 12+3reb+2ast, C.Christoffersen 10+12reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 7+1reb+1ast, J.Thorpe 4+4reb+2ast

Very expected game when 10th ranked Aalborg (1-18) lost on the road to fifth ranked Horsholm (10-7) 73-68. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-16. But Aalborg won third quarter 23-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Aalborg 32-20 including 20 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was forward Jonathan Gilling (203-91) who scored 24 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. American center Billy Blackmon (208-88, college: Charleston So., agency: GOTathletes) chipped in 12 points. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Barkley Falkner (203-86, college: Sam Houston St.) who recorded 20 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) added 14 points respectively. Four Aalborg players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Horsholm has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 10-7 record. Aalborg lost fourth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. Horsholm's next round opponent will be higher ranked Horsens IC (#4) in Horsens and it may be quite challenging game. Aalborg will play on the road against Vaerlose (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Aalborg: B.Falkner 20+5reb, M.Hall 14+4reb+2ast, H.Falsvig 11+1reb+2ast, C.Thomsen 10+4reb+1ast, B.Sorensen 9+3reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 3Horsholm: J.Gilling 24+8reb+4ast, B.Blackmon 12+4reb+1ast, A.Bak 10+2reb+2ast, C.Rasmussen 9, J.Hakanowitz 7+9reb+1ast, B.Marinkovic 5+4reb

The game between eighth ranked Vaerlose (6-12) and 9th ranked Amager BK (3-16) in Vaerlose ended with biggest points difference. Vaerlose outscored guests from Kastrup 84-54. The game was mostly controlled by Vaerlose. Amager BK managed to win fourth quarter 24-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Amager BK to just 4 points in second quarter. Vaerlose dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Amager BK's 22. Vaerlose forced 23 Amager BK turnovers and outrebounded them 52-18 including a 23-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Amager BK's players. The best player for the winners was American forward Bonell Colas (206-82, college: Florida) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds. Senegalese power forward Pape Ba (205-81, college: Bethune-Cookman) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Rasmus Larsen (186-87) who recorded 14 points and Lithuanian forward Nerijus Brasas (200-85) added 13 points respectively. Four Amager BK players scored in double figures. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Newly promoted Vaerlose maintains eighth position with 6-12 record. Amager BK lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 16 games lost. Vaerlose's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Aalborg (#10) at home. Amager BK will play against Aabyhoj. Top scorers:Amager BK: R.Larsen 14+4reb, N.Brasas 13+2reb+2ast, P.Simonsen 11+2reb+2ast, M.Lisby 10+3reb+2ast, M.Pedersen 6, N.Miliares 0+2rebVaerlose: P.Ba 19+8reb, B.Colas 15+13reb+3ast, M.Rasmussen 14+7reb, S.Jensen 7+6reb+8ast, C.Dissing 7+2reb+4ast, A.Karason 5+3reb+3ast

Very predictable result when second ranked Svendborg (15-2) won against at home bottom-ranked Aalborg (1-18) 87-75. It looked good early as Aalborg took an 6-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Svendborg had a 29-21 second period charge getting the lead and Aalborg was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 75-87. They outrebounded Aalborg 38-25 including a 30-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Matt Williams (200-77, college: Montana) chipped in a double-double by scoring 10 points and 15 rebounds. Five Svendborg players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Barkley Falkner (203-86, college: Sam Houston St.) who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) added 25 points and 4 assists respectively. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion maintains second position with 15-2 record having just three points less than leader Bakken. Aalborg lost fourth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. Svendborg's next round opponent will be SISU (#7) in Copenhagen where they are favorite. Aalborg will play on the road against Vaerlose and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Aalborg: B.Falkner 27+10reb, M.Hall 25+4reb+4ast, S.Hansen 6+1reb, H.Falsvig 5+3reb+3ast, R.Lauridsen 4+2reb+3ast, C.Thomsen 4+3rebSvendborg: N.Iversen 19+7reb+3ast, C.Magaard 14+2reb+1ast, A.Darboe 14+3reb+3ast, M.Plannthin 13+6reb+3ast, M.Williams 10+15reb+1ast, C.Cavanaugh 10+2reb+1ast

The most surprising game was the first loss of undefeated Bakken (17-1) in Aarhus on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by fifth ranked Horsholm (10-7) 78-69. It ended at the same time the 15-game winning streak of Bakken. Bakken trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 28-25 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Horsholm made 25-of-31 free shots (80.6 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Horsholm made 7 blocks. It was a good game for the former international power forward Jens Hakanowitz (204-80) who led his team to a victory with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks. International guard Frederik Nielsen (180-88) contributed with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners. International swingman Chris Nielsen (192-85) replied with 21 points and 7 rebounds and American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) added 14 points and 4 assists in the effort for Bakken. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Horsholm has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 10-7 record. Bakken at the other side still keeps top place with one game lost. Horsholm are looking forward to face higher ranked Horsens IC (#4) in Horsens in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Bakken will play on the road against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Bakken: C.Nielsen 21+7reb+1ast, C.Burgess 14+4reb+4ast, A.Jakobsen 14+2reb+5ast, C.Christoffersen 13+7reb, A.Jorgensen 6+3reb, M.Thuesen 1+1reb+1astHorsholm: J.Hakanowitz 20+5reb+1ast, J.Gilling 18+7reb, A.Bak 15+4reb+1ast, F.Nielsen 11+6reb+9ast, P.Hertz 6, B.Blackmon 5+7reb+1ast

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 7th ranked SISU (7-12) lost to eighth ranked Vaerlose (6-12) in Copenhagen 69-80. The game was mostly controlled by Vaerlose. SISU managed to win second period 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was American forward Bonell Colas (206-82, college: Florida) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds. Senegalese power forward Pape Ba (205-81, college: Bethune-Cookman) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Four Vaerlose players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Donald Rutherford (198, college: Catawba) who recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) added 19 points respectively. SISU's coach Almir Zeco tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Newly promoted Vaerlose maintains eighth position with 6-12 record. SISU lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 12 games lost. Vaerlose's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Aalborg (#10) at home. Top scorers:SISU: M.Dennis 19+4reb+2ast, M.Brown 17+5reb+1ast, D.Rutherford 12+10reb+4ast, D.Harder 9+5reb+2ast, K.Nielsen 6+4reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 6+2reb+2astVaerlose: B.Colas 24+14reb+2ast, J.McFarlane 18+4reb+1ast, P.Ba 16+10reb, M.Rasmussen 16, S.Jensen 6+5reb+6ast, O.Sedoc-Moller 0

The game in Aabyhoj supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Horsens IC (11-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Aabyhoj (8-11). Horsens IC smashed Aabyhoj 78-55 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Horsens IC. Aabyhoj managed to win fourth quarter 11-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Horsens IC forced 22 Aabyhoj turnovers. American guard Rickey Claitt (188-87, college: Oregon St.) notched 17 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and the other American import power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) supported him with 19 points and 5 rebounds. St.John is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds by American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) did not help to save the game for Aabyhoj. The former international power forward Mads Frandsen (202-90) added 12 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Horsens IC has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 11-8 record. Loser Aabyhoj keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Horsens IC will meet at home Horsholm (#5) in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Amager BK in Kastrup and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Aabyhoj: E.Morris 20+8reb+1ast, M.Frandsen 12+6reb, D.Jukic 6+4reb, M.Draegert 4+3reb, A.Martin 2+2reb, R.Laier 2+1rebHorsens IC: M.St.John 19+5reb, R.Claitt 17+6reb+3ast, H.Schur 13+6reb+2ast, A.Madsen 9+4reb+4ast, M.Sahlertz 7+3reb+1ast, M.Jorgensen 4+2reb+1ast

Thursday: Stampede and 66ers beat their rivals - by Eurobasket NewsIdaho S. - Austin T. 109-95Antoine Walker (6'9''-F-75, college: Kentucky) scored 26 points as the Idaho Stampede held off the Austin Toros in NBA D-League play Thursday night. Walker's night was charged by 6-of-10 shooting from 3-point range. Jermareo Davidson (6'10''-F-84, college: Alabama) added 22 points and 13 rebounds for Idaho, which improved to 9-15. The Stampede are still sitting in last place in the D-League West Conference, but have won 7 of their last 9 contests. The Toros fell to 10-12. *Courtesy of www.fox12idaho.com

Tulsa 66ers - Reno Bighorns 112-107 OTTulsa's, NBA Development team, the 66'ers, came from 18 points back in the second half to beat the Reno Bighorns, 112-to-107 in overtime. After tieing the game 107-107 at the end of regulation Tulsa outscored the visitors 5-0 in the overtime period. Former Alabama-Birmigham star, Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, college: UAB) led all scorers with 23 points. The win kept alive Tulsa's team record win streak of 11 straight. Tulsa is now 19-and-6, 13 games over .500 with the best record in the D-League and the leaders in the Western Conference. The 66'er are home again this Saturday to host Texas in the Downtown Convention Center. Tip time is 7pm. *Courtesy of www.ktul.com

Williamson (6-5/200) most recently played this season with the Austin Toros of the NBA D-League. The Lower Merion, Pa., native played in nine games (three starts), averaging 6.6 points, 2.1 rebounds and two assists in 21.3 minutes for the Toros.

Williamson was drafted in the fourth round of the 2010 D-League Draft by Austin out of St. Joseph's University. His senior season he averaged 12.1 points and 3.9 assists for the Hawks.

He will be in uniform wearing No. 15.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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EBA

Wizards won 2 games in same day - by Gianni PascucciOn Saturday 1/15/2010, the New York Wizards faced off against a totally re-vamped Hudson Valley Hype lineup in a historic same team doubleheader and came away with two victories. 'We could find no evidence that any professional team associated with a league has every played two games in the same day' Stated Wizards General Manager Terence Blake 'This is truly a historic event and one that shows the quality and conditioning of our athletes.''As the event unfolded it became very apparent to all those involved that this would be a very, very, difficult basketball event' Stated Wizards Head Coach Greg Cerillo Sr 'Looking back on it now, the evenings doubleheader MVP's may have just been the officials, Alvin Pratt, Martin Braxton, and Tracy Stamper. They were the only 3 involved in the night that played all 96 minutes.' The two games truly were two very different contests. The Hype came out in the first game with their classic Pro Zone Defense, that caused the Wizards to come out of their basic pound it in the paint style they have utilized all year to take advantage of their size and gain the advantage in free throws over their opponent. The Wizards started to launch up 3-pt shots. Before it was all over the Wizards nailed 9 3-pt shots including an incredible 7 of 11 from 2 guard Darrell Wonge (6'7''-F-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Winston Salem). Wonge would finish the game with 39 points to lead the Wizards. 'The first game gave us an opportunity to show an ability we don't often use. This we feel will make it difficult for future opponents to figure out exactly how to defend us' Continued Cerillo The result of the Wizards long range assault was a 125-101 victory How did the Wizards celebrate their victory ? With an approximate 15 minute break before the start of Game 2.. What happened in the second game almost blew the Wizards right out of the beautiful Upstate NY Pine Bush gym. The Hype took advantage of a slow start by the Wizards and posted 71 points by halftime. 'These two games and the performance of the Hype are directly related to the influence of one person, new Co-Owner and Hype Head Coach Allen Pickett ' Stated Coach CerilloWhat Coach Cerillo was referring to was the excellent job Pickett did in recruiting a talented group of young pro players including Lloyd Johnson (5'11''-G), Lloyd Clinton (6'7''-F-83, college: DeSales), and Justin Marshall (6'8''-F-85, college: Iona). 'The Hype now truly have a lineup which can change this division and the outcome of the playoffs' Stated Coach Cerillo 'The Hype now have a pro point guard (Lloyd Johnson), and players around him that can compete in this league. That was the one thing clearly the same in each game. Lloyd Johnson. He scored 34 in game one and 30 in game 2. No team in this league will be able to take advantage of the Hype point guard position any longer.' To win the second game the Wizards would revert back to their tried and true style of play. The ever consistent Jerome Richardson (6'4''-G/F-83, college: Louisiana Tech) posted yet another 20+ point performance (27) including some rim rocking dunks. Center Alioune Ndiaye (6'9''-F, college: Dowling) dominated inside play with 22 points 13 rebounds and 4 blocked shots. Former league MVP point guard Aubin Scott (6'2''-G-83, college: LIU Brooklyn) continued to dominate play with 13 point.But the second game belonged to Wizards guard Tamien Trent (6'0''-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Fairleigh Dickinson). Tamien would finish the game with 37 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals. This performance included a perfect free throw performance in the final quarter when Tamien shot over, posted up, and went by the Hype defense to seal a 135-132 victory by the Wizards. 'I think most people are aware of the talent on this club' Stated Wizards General Manager Terence Blake 'What I am beginning to find most interesting about our club is that it can be a different person every night. This is truly a reflection of the leadership of people like Aubin Scott, Jerome Richardson, Benoit Bekono (6'7''-F-85, college: Cal-Riverside), and others to be totally unselfish and not concerned about swtats, only wins.' The Hype sit alone in first plate at 6-0 atop the Northern Division of the EBA.

Up next for the Hype is another road contest against the difficult North Jersey Pro's on Saturday 1/22/2011.

Metro All-Stars vs Hawks DMV match Up! - by Justin MooreMetropolitan All-Stars and NoVa Hawks will play this weekend which will be a match up of two Pro basketball franchises representing the DMV area DC,MD,VA with a cast of Area Studs led by Calvin Brown (6'9''-C-83, college: Norfolk St.),Elyon Bush (6'7''-F-85, college: Delaware St.) this looks to be a high-scoring affair Game time will be 3:30pm at Central High school 200 Cabin Branch rd, Capital heights, maryland this is the battle of the beltway as the undefeated Metro all-stars plan on extending their winning strek to (3-0). There will be a $50 half court shot contest brought to us by TD bank and alot of other giveaways and prizes.

EMKL Round 19: KK Parnu edges BC Rakvere by three points - by Eurobasket NewsThe most exciting game of round 19 in the EMKL took place in Rakvere. This game ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th placed BC Rakvere (11-10) to eighth ranked KK Parnu (5-14) 90-87 on Friday evening. BC Rakvere was trailing by 8 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 25-20 charge of KK Parnu, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by BC Rakvere helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) fired 31 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Forward Toomas Raadik (198-90) chipped in 24 points. American swingman Brett McGee (198-84, college: Mt.Mercy) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds for lost side. BC Rakvere's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. KK Parnu maintains eighth place with 5-14 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with ten games lost. KK Parnu are looking forward to face league's second-placed Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BC Rakvere will have a break next round. The game in Valga was quite interesting. 6th ranked TTU/Kalev II (7-12) played at the court of seventh ranked Valga/CKE (8-12). Valga/CKE managed to secure a 6-point victory 74-68. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of TTU/Kalev II. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Ando Tagamets (200-79) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 9 rebounds. Anthony Brown contributed with 12 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) answered with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds for TTU/Kalev II. TTU/Kalev II's coach Indrek Reinbok tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Valga/CKE moved-up to fifth place. TTU/Kalev II at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. The game with biggest result difference took place in Voru. Local Voru KK (1-19) lost to fourth ranked BC Rakvere (11-10) 90-79 on Thursday night. Worth to mention a quality performance of Matthew Hall who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. BC Rakvere's coach Andreas Sober used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Andrais Thornton responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds. BC Rakvere maintains fourth place with 11-10 record. Voru KK lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 19 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

The game in Valga was quite interesting. 6th ranked TTU/Kalev II (7-12) played at the court of seventh ranked Valga/CKE (8-12). Valga/CKE managed to secure a 6-point victory 74-68. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of TTU/Kalev II. TTU/Kalev II was ahead by 13 points after three quarters before a 30-11 charge of Valga/CKE, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Ando Tagamets (200-79) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 9 rebounds. American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Valga/CKE players scored in double figures. American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) answered with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds and guard Mihkel Kurg (191-87) added 15 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for TTU/Kalev II. TTU/Kalev II's coach Indrek Reinbok tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Valga/CKE moved-up to fifth place. TTU/Kalev II at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:TTU/Kalev II: A.Arnold 19+10reb, M.Kurg 15+6reb+1ast, K.Akenparg 12+2reb+4ast, K.Keres 8+4reb+1ast, S.Raudla 7+4reb+2ast, I.Tulit 4+5reb+1astValga/CKE: A.Tagamets 16+9reb+1ast, A.Vasar 14+6reb+1ast, A.Brown 12+13reb, V.Vares 11+5reb, R.Petersonig 9+1reb+2ast, T.Oja 6+2reb+4ast

The most exciting game of round 19 in the EMKL took place in Rakvere. This game ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th placed BC Rakvere (11-10) to eighth ranked KK Parnu (5-14) 90-87 on Friday evening. BC Rakvere was trailing by 8 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 25-20 charge of KK Parnu, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by BC Rakvere helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) fired 31 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Forward Toomas Raadik (198-90) chipped in 24 points. Four KK Parnu players scored in double figures. American swingman Brett McGee (198-84, college: Mt.Mercy) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import guard Matthew Hall (191-86, college: Stonehill) added 18 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. BC Rakvere's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. KK Parnu maintains eighth place with 5-14 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with ten games lost. KK Parnu are looking forward to face league's second-placed Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BC Rakvere will have a break next round. Top scorers:Rakvere: B.McGee 18+12reb+1ast, M.Hall 18+5reb+2ast, V.Viljar 13+4reb+1ast, J.Pokla 8+6reb+3ast, H.Frier 7+1reb+2ast, R.Anderson 7+2reb+1astParnu: R.Raap 31+6reb+7ast, T.Raadik 24+3reb+1ast, E.Tamsalu 16+7reb+1ast, M.Paasoja 12+1reb+1ast, T.Hamarsalu 7+7reb, R.Karner 0+2reb

The game with biggest result difference took place in Voru. Local Voru KK (1-19) lost to fourth ranked BC Rakvere (11-10) 90-79 on Thursday night. Voru KK was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 31-16 charge of BC Rakvere, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 19 Voru KK turnovers. Worth to mention a quality performance of American guard Matthew Hall (191-86, college: Stonehill) who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Joosep Pokla (195-86) helped adding 17 points and 6 rebounds. Hall is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. BC Rakvere's coach Andreas Sober used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side American center Andrais Thornton (203-85, college: NW Missouri St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds and forward Merlis Niklus (186-80) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. BC Rakvere maintains fourth place with 11-10 record. Voru KK lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 19 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Voru KK: A.Thornton 22+12reb+2ast, M.Niklus 19+7reb, C.Allen 17+5reb+1ast, T.Kimask 15+1reb+3ast, S.Kuuba 6+8reb+1ast, E.Asi 0Rakvere: M.Hall 26+5reb+4ast, J.Pokla 17+6reb+2ast, V.Viljar 12+4reb+1ast, B.McGee 11+8reb+2ast, R.Anderson 8+7reb+3ast, M.Dorbek 6+2reb+3ast

Kalev/Cramo and Robert Krabbendam agree to part ways - by Eurobasket NewsRobert Krabbendam (213-C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Virginia Tech) is no longer a member of Estonian team Kalev/Cramo. Two sides agreed to part ways yesterday. Krabbendam joined the squad last summer from EclipseJet-MyGuide Amsterdam. He played 9 games in Estonian league averaging 6.1 points and 5 rebounds. He also appeared 6 times in Baltic league adding 5 ppg and 4.5 rpg. Kalev/Cramo plays in VTB United League this season, where Krabbendam registered 6.5 ppg and 2.8 rpg. As mentioned above, Robert Krabbendam arrived to Kalev from Amterdam. He played 19 games for them in Holland registering 11.2 ppg and 5.4 rpg. In EuroChallenge, he added 10.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 6 games. He was a member of Amsterdam from 2007. Robert Krabbendam is a product of the Virginia Tech University.

Grinding through the Winter - by Matthew HallThe late days in January have been dull, it seems like there is a sort of widespread monotony between everyone here. The winter here is a bit long, and the snow just keeps coming, Im thinking that might be the reason. However, we still have games to play, as a team were trying to bring the energy and 'sense of urgency' as Richard Anderson (199-F-77, college: Simon Fraser) (193-F-82) (199-F-77, college: Simon Fraser) screamed to us last night early in the fourth quarter when we were down by six points, we could here the thunder in his voice and Im sure the crowd could as well, we dont call him Chocolate Thunder for just any reason, and actually for confidential purposes I cant elaborate on why we use this nickname for him. That was one of the first times I saw Richard get physically upset, and he had all the right to be, that kind of veteran leadership is exactly what we need at this point in the season. The saddest thing to see as an athlete is a team that plays lackadaisical, playing without passion is a direct disrespect to the game, and is something that we cannot afford if we want to accomplish the goals weve set for ourselves as a team this season.

Lately Ive been reading a book of short stories by Anton Chekov, it has been a nice way to learn about the Eastern culture out here. In a quote from his story, 'The House with the Mezzanine', he writes, 'Hunger, coldness, visceral fear, and endless work all block them like snowdrifts from pursuing a spiritual life, which makes life worth living.' I think spiritual life primarily hints at religion, but more importantly the quote means not to let our 'work, fears, and contempt' get in the way of what really matters at the end of the day; family, friends, the sources that contribute to ones own spiritual growth. I'm currently thousands of miles away from my family, but I have been staying in touch and the longer I'm away the more I realize how fortunate I am to have all of them in my life. My brother Mickey and his wife Erin are having their first child in a couple of months, so I want to wish them all the best.

We have a home game tonight against Parnu, we need to win to maintain our spot in fourth place. Hopefully we get a nice turnout from the fans, they have been incredibly loyal to us all season. Until next time, Ciao!

Kenny Gregory claims Euroleague weekly honour - by Eurobasket NewsExperienced American Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78) had an amazing evening in the last round for Union Olimpija Ljubljana and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 1 (Top 16).The 32-year old swingman had a double-double of 19 points and fourteen rebounds, while his team edged out Lottomatica (0-1) on the road 64-63. It allowed Union Olimpija to jump to the first place in Group F. But it's just the very beginning of the Top 16 and Union Olimpija won just one (their first) game. It's too early to say anything as the standings can be changed completely after next round. Gregory turned to be Union Olimpija's top player in his first season with the team.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 33-year old American forward Mike Batiste (203-F-77) of Panathinaikos Athens. Batiste impressed basketball fans with 26 points and 3 rebounds. Of course he lead Panathinaikos to comfortable win outscoring Lietuvos Rytas (0-1) on the road 80-59. His team has extremely good start of the Top 16. They won their first game. However the Top 16 is at the beginning, so everything can happen. They still may lose their high position in the standings. Batiste is one of the most experienced players at Panathinaikos and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Marvis Thornton (194-G-77) of Efes Pilsen Istanbul. Thornton scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Efes Pilsen, leading his team to a 60-58 win against Montepaschi. Efes Pilsen has a very good start of the Top 16. But there was just one game played, so it's too early to judge them at this stage. Thornton has a very solid season so far. In 11 games in Euroleague he scored 8.5ppg. He also has 5.3rpg and FGP: 55.8%.

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Korisliiga Round 29: KTP-Basket is defeated by Kauhajoen Karhu - by Eurobasket NewsCoincidentally all hosts won their games.

The game between second ranked KTP-Basket (22-7) and ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (12-17) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. KTP-Basket was defeated by Kauhajoen Karhu in a tough game in Kauhajoki 84-93. KTP-Basket was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Kauhajoen Karhu had a 35-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. 27 personal fouls committed by KTP-Basket helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Steffan Johnson (185-87, college: Idaho) stepped up and scored 30 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and his fellow American import guard Walt Baxley (191-84, college: Mars Hill) chipped in 31 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) responded with 16 points and 8 rebounds. KTP-Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kauhajoen Karhu maintains ninth place with 12-17 record. KTP-Basket lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with seven games lost. Kauhajoen Karhu are looking forward to face higher ranked Espoo Honka (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will play against Joensuun Kataja and it may be a tough game between close rivals. UU-Korihait (#4) was upset in Lahti by eighth ranked Namika Lahti103-94. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of UU-Korihait. Guard Roope Suonio (176-82) nailed 31 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side and Ryan Ayers accounted for 32 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots). Namika Lahti's coach Sami Toiviainen allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) came up with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for UU-Korihait in the defeat. Namika Lahti maintains eighth place with 12-16 record. UU-Korihait at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Namika Lahti will play against bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo (#12) on the road in the next round. UU-Korihait will play against Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki and hopes to get back on the winning track. Korisliiga top team - Tampereen Pyrinto (23-6) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat fifth ranked Espoo Honka (17-11) 84-75. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Espoo Honka. The best player for the winners was Damon Williams who scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Corey Belser produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 15 rebounds for the guests. Espoo Honka's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Tampereen Pyrinto have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 23-6 record. Loser Espoo Honka keeps the fifth position with 11 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will meet LrNMKY (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Espoo Honka will play against Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki and hope to secure a win. Third ranked Joensuun Kataja (19-10) crushed at home 10th ranked Salon Vilpas (10-19) by 27 points 98-71, which is the biggest margin this round. Jason Conley orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 8 rebounds. Joensuun Kataja's coach Jukka Toijala felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Joensuun Kataja maintains third place with 19-10 record having four points less than leader Pyrinto. Salon Vilpas at the other side keeps the tenth position with 19 games lost. Joensuun Kataja's next round opponent will be league's second-placed KTP-Basket in Kotka and it will be for sure the game of the week. Salon Vilpas will play at home against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola.

In the last two games of round 29 bottom-ranked Tarmo lost to Kouvot on the opponent's court 72-78. ToPo outscored LrNMKY in a home game 106-81.

The game between second ranked KTP-Basket (22-7) and ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (12-17) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. KTP-Basket was defeated by Kauhajoen Karhu in a tough game in Kauhajoki 84-93. KTP-Basket was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Kauhajoen Karhu had a 35-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. 27 personal fouls committed by KTP-Basket helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Steffan Johnson (185-87, college: Idaho) stepped up and scored 30 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and his fellow American import guard Walt Baxley (191-84, college: Mars Hill) chipped in 31 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) responded with 16 points and 8 rebounds and Canadian forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, college: Cent.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Five KTP-Basket players scored in double figures. KTP-Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kauhajoen Karhu maintains ninth place with 12-17 record. KTP-Basket lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with seven games lost. Kauhajoen Karhu are looking forward to face higher ranked Espoo Honka (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will play against Joensuun Kataja and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Karhu: W.Baxley 31+7reb+2ast, S.Johnson 30+7reb+4ast, J.Wood 13+6reb+6ast, V.Makalainen 8+12reb, S.Niskanen 4+2reb, A.Huuskonen 4+3rebKTP: M.Holme 20+2reb+2ast, S.Barrett 19+7reb+1ast, J.Fields 16+8reb+3ast, J.Ivey 12+3reb+4ast, J.Lehtoranta 11+5reb, M.Dobras 4+4reb

Third ranked Joensuun Kataja (19-10) crushed at home 10th ranked Salon Vilpas (10-19) by 27 points 98-71, which is the biggest margin this round. The game without a history. Joensuun Kataja led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Joensuun Kataja outrebounded Salon Vilpas 38-25 including 28 on the defensive glass. American guard Jason Conley (196-81, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 8 rebounds. His fellow American import swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) contributed with 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Joensuun Kataja's coach Jukka Toijala felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Nicchaeus Doaks (202-87, college: Chattanooga, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) answered with 18 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Jukka Kataja (197-82) added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Salon Vilpas. Five Joensuun Kataja and four Salon Vilpas players scored in double figures. Joensuun Kataja maintains third place with 19-10 record having four points less than leader Pyrinto. Salon Vilpas at the other side keeps the tenth position with 19 games lost. Joensuun Kataja's next round opponent will be league's second-placed KTP-Basket in Kotka and it will be for sure the game of the week. Salon Vilpas will play at home against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola. Top scorers:Kataja: J.Conley 20+8reb+3ast, P.Virtanen 17+2reb+4ast, J.Newson 17+7reb+1ast, J.Nenonen 13+6reb, S.Lehtoranta 12+4reb+1ast, D.Fells 8+6reb+1astSalon Vilpas: N.Doaks 18+5reb+2ast, N.Okorie 11+2reb+4ast, M.Nuutinen 10+5reb+2ast, J.Kataja 10+5reb+5ast, R.Ahonen 8+3reb+3ast, L.Tiainen 7

Very expected game in Kouvola where 12th ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-25) was defeated by sixth ranked Kouvot (15-14) 78-72. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Porvoon Tarmo was ahead by 6 points after three quarters before a 25-13 charge of Kouvot, which allowed them to win the game. American guard B.A. Walker (188-84, college: Va Commonwealth, agency: Pro One Sports) orchestrated the victory by scoring 31 points. The former international forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Jonathan Heard (198-86) answered with 24 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import forward Jerrah Young (202-85, college: Toledo) added 10 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Porvoon Tarmo. Four Porvoon Tarmo players scored in double figures. Kouvot maintains sixth place with 15-14 record. Porvoon Tarmo lost their sixth game in a row. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 25 lost games. Kouvot's next round opponent will be Salon Vilpas (#10) on the road. Porvoon Tarmo will play against Namika Lahti. Top scorers:Kouvot: B.Walker 31+3reb, D.Vinson 14+6reb+3ast, V.Kaunisto 13+15reb+2ast, J.Gonner 8+3reb+1ast, E.Johansson 7+3reb, A.Nikkarinen 3+3reb+1astTarmo: J.Heard 24+7reb+3ast, A.Conerly 14+4reb, J.Kyllonen 11+3ast, J.Young 10+10reb, E.Maki-Tulokas 9+3reb+3ast, L.Trice Little 4+1reb

UU-Korihait (#4) was upset in Lahti by eighth ranked Namika Lahti103-94. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of UU-Korihait. It looked good early as UU-Korihait took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Namika Lahti had a 25-22 second period charge getting the lead and UU-Korihait was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 94-103. Namika Lahti made 21-of-24 charity shots (87.5 percent) during the game. Strangely UU-Korihait outrebounded Namika Lahti 38-18 including a 19-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. Guard Roope Suonio (176-82) nailed 31 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side and American guard Ryan Ayers (201-86, college: Notre Dame) accounted for 32 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots). Namika Lahti's coach Sami Toiviainen allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) came up with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and the other American import forward Lawrence Wright (195-84, college: Bradley) added 26 points and 10 rebounds respectively for UU-Korihait in the defeat. Five Namika Lahti and four UU-Korihait players scored in double figures. Namika Lahti maintains eighth place with 12-16 record. UU-Korihait at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Namika Lahti will play against bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo (#12) on the road in the next round. UU-Korihait will play against Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Namika Lahti: R.Ayers 32+3reb+2ast, R.Suonio 31+5reb+6ast, C.Latimer 14+5reb+1ast, A.Vereen 13+1reb+4ast, T.Hendley 12+2reb, V.Streng 1+1rebKorihait: L.Wright 26+10reb, N.Moore 24+10reb+6ast, J.Reaves 17+7reb, B.Sarcevic 13+3reb+3ast, M.Jalonen 5+2reb+1ast, J.Kumpulainen 4+4reb+2ast

Rather predictable result in Helsinki where seventh ranked Torpan Pojat (14-15) smashed 11th ranked LrNMKY (7-22) 106-81. It looked good early as LrNMKY took an 10-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Torpan Pojat took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 25 points. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to LrNMKY's 30. International guard Mikko Koivisto (194-87, college: NC-Greensboro) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international power forward Hanno Mottola (209-76, college: Utah) contributed with 20 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds and swingman Viljami Vanjoki (194-86) added 19 points in the effort for LrNMKY. Five Torpan Pojat and four LrNMKY players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Torpan Pojat maintains seventh place with 14-15 record. LrNMKY at the other side keeps the eleventh position with 22 games lost. Torpan Pojat's next round opponent will be higher ranked UU-Korihait (#4) in Uusikaupunki and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LrNMKY will play at home against the league's leader Tampereen Pyrinto (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:ToPo: M.Koivisto 24+7reb+5ast, F.Richards 22+2reb+3ast, H.Mottola 20+8reb+1ast, T.Heinonen 15+9reb, M.Sandberg 11+2reb, E.Kajander 4+4reb+2astLrNMKY: V.Vanjoki 19+3reb+1ast, H.Coleman 18+13reb+1ast, M.Moore 17+3reb+1ast, J.Lewis 13+7reb, T.Kulha 9+2reb+1ast, V.Pekkola 5+1reb+1ast

Korisliiga top team - Tampereen Pyrinto (23-6) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat fifth ranked Espoo Honka (17-11) 84-75. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Espoo Honka. The hosts trailed by 8 points at the halftime before their 49-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Tampereen Pyrinto made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. His fellow American import forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds. American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 15 rebounds and the former international guard Tuomas Iisalo (195-82, agency: Court Side) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Five Tampereen Pyrinto and four Espoo Honka players scored in double figures. Espoo Honka's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Tampereen Pyrinto have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 23-6 record. Loser Espoo Honka keeps the fifth position with 11 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will meet LrNMKY (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Espoo Honka will play against Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Pyrinto: D.Williams 21+7reb+7ast, A.Williams 17+9reb+2ast, A.Lehto 14+1reb+2ast, K.Lowe 14+4reb+1ast, A.Nikkila 10+5reb+1ast, J.Niemi 5+2rebHonka: T.Iisalo 16+5reb+4ast, J.Williamson 14+7reb+1ast, C.Belser 14+15reb+3ast, V.Makalainen 12+3reb+2ast, S.Vanttaja 7+3reb, J.Suotamo 5+5reb

Black's double-double lands him ProA Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News25-year old forward Jeremy Black (203-F-85, agency: Rasmussen Services) put on an amazing game in the last round for Karlsruhe and receives a Eurobasket.com ProA Player of the Week award for round 16.He had a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds, while his team edged out Jena (#12, 6-10) 80-78. Karlsruhe is placed at 7th position in German ProA. Karlsruhe is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-8 record. It's Black's second year at Karlsruhe and it's hard to imagine this team without him. University of Tampa graduate has very impressive stats this year. Black is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 9.6rpg) and averages solid 53.4% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jamar Nutter (188-G-84) of USC Freiburg. He is American guard in his first season at Freiburg. In the last game Nutter recorded impressive 24 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Bad luck as Freiburg was edged by the higher-ranked Osnabrueck (#5, 9-5) 88-84. Freiburg are still at the very bottom. 13 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Freiburg managed to get this year. Nutter is a newcomer at Freiburg and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Kejuan Johnson (193-G-85) of Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn (#9). Johnson showcased his all-around game by recording 19 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Webmoebel, leading his team to a 99-62 easy win against the lower-ranked Cuxhaven (#15, 3-13). The chances of Webmoebel ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Johnson could help Webmoebel to bring them higher in the standings. Johnson has a great season in Germany. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.5ppg (3rd best) and assists with 5.0apg (6th best).

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) I'm Rooting For The German League Vet Steve Wright To Win The Dunk Contest - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberKevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York. This season, he is playing for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. Last season, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. He spoke to eurobasket about the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig are in 5th place with a record of 13-7. How happy are you with the first half of the season?

I'm pretty happy. We are in a decent position in the league.

What will The New Yorker Phantoms have to do better in the second half of the season?

I'm pretty happy. We are in a decent position in the league.

Which Phantom has been the most improved player in the first half of the season?

Brandon Thomas. He has been the mvp as well.

Can Marcus Goree win the MVP award at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game?

If they give him the ball enough !

What makes Goree still so strong for his age?

Well he is real strong and he has a real good understanding of how to play the game.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game? The North or South and why?

I'm rooting for the german league vet Steve Wright.

Which 2 teams will reach the Superbowl?

Steelers and Packers.

Thanks for the chat Kev.

Jacob Burtschi (Phoenix Hagen) I Hope That I Break Double Digits In The Three Point Shooting Contest - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberJacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 26 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is a rookie this season for Phoenix Hagen. He played at the Air Force from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. Currently the American is averaging 14,4ppg, 6,5rpg, 2,3apg, and 1,8spg and is shooting 49% from down town. Burtschi is taking part in the 2011 BEKO BBL three point shooting contest and spoke to eurobasket.

Phoenix Hagen is in 13th place with a record of 8-12 at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar break? How would you sum up the first half of the season?

Overall I would just say ok. We hit a rough patch and lost 7 in a row and that really took us out of contention for a playoff spot but we have 14 games left and you never know what could happen

What have been your highs and lows as a player for Phoenix Hagen?

I think my high is just being able to compete in this league after being away from organized basketball for 3 years. Im happy I havent been a bust. My low would be the 7 game losing streak. I have never experienced such a streak, but tough times dont last, tough people do and we as a team were able to bounce back with 3 in a row.

The team tends to give up a lot of points. What will the team have to do better on defense in the second half of the season?

We ill have to go back to the drawing board defensively. There are some great players in this league that can pick any defense apart, but we gotta find the right one that just slows them down.

Who has been the most improved Phoenix Hagen player in the first half of the season?

David Bell. He shot the ball well early in the season then lost his touch, but as of the last 6 games or so he has really turned into the player we knew he could be.

What are you looking forward to most at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game besides taking part in the three point shooting contest?

Just getting to know alot of the other players on a more personal basis. Alot of these guys have known each other from the last few years and college and I feel like the new kid at a new school.

Who was your favorite shooter as a kid who was in the NBA and why?

Rex Chapman hands down. That shot vs the sonics can never be forgotten and how can you mess with a guy named Rex?

Who is your favorite shooter today that is playing in the NBA and why?

Cant really say I have a favorite shooter. I just like watching my boy Blake Griffin's highlights every night

How are you preparing for the three point shooting contest? Do you just shoot shoot shoot or can one practice it the same way how you will shoot at the contest?

Yeah with the help of my teammates I will have a few dry runs. In one minute you gotta get up 25 shots, tough to take a second and gather yourself. Its rapid fire the whole time

What is the secret of making the money ball swish?lol

A lot of hope and prayer

Which player do you believe will give you the most competition? My money is with BBC Bayreuth player Pete Campbell.

Everyone in the competition can flat out shoot the ball. Its anyones game. I just hope I break double digits

What is the most important thing one has to do in a shooting contest like this besides making your shots?

Stay calm. A lot of eyes will be on you and if you miss, just forget about it and move on to the next shot

Why will Mark Dorris win the 2011 BEKO BBL slam dunk contest? Will any of the other guys like Quantez Robertson, Torrell Martin, John Bynum or Steven Wright give him competition?

A lot of these guys are smaller more explosive dunkers so it will be a good competition but Mark will set himself apart with his showmanship

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game? The North or South?

The north will for sure.

Which 2 teams will reach the Superbowl and who will win the Superbowl?

Packers and Steelers. and I would love to see mr rodgers get his first ring.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

shooter with Mark Wahlberg. Its a movie showcasing my skills at call of duty and thats for you twig and cain

Thanks Jacob for the chat.

1.Bundesliga Round 19: Leader Brose Baskets get another victory - by Eurobasket NewsThe round 19 was rather boring as all games ended with very predictable results.

Leader Brose Baskets delivered the nineteenth win on Sunday night. This time they crushed 18th ranked Gloria Giants (3-16) 98-61 in Bamberg. The game was mostly controlled by Brose Baskets. Gloria Giants managed to win second period 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Brose Baskets shot 62.7 percent from the field and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Gloria Giants' players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Brose Baskets made 7 blocks. Slovakian guard Anton Gavel (189-84, agency: Pro One Sports) fired 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. International power forward Tibor Pleiss (214-89) chipped in 16 points. Brose Baskets' coach Chris Fleming felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard DeAndre Haynes (187-84, college: Kent St.) produced 12 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. Defending champion maintains first place with 19-1 record. Gloria Giants at the other side stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Brose Baskets are looking forward to face Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Gloria Giants will play against the league's second-placed Deutsche Bank Skyliners (#2) in Frankfurt and are hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident. We should mention about the upset which took place in Hagen, where 4th placed ALBA Berlin (13-6) lost to thirteenth ranked Phoenix Hagen (8-12) in a road game 86-92. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard David Bell (186-81, college: Montana, agency: Impact Basketball) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Jacob Burtschi contributed with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Phoenix Hagen's coach Ingo Freyer allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Derrick Allen (203-80, college: Mississippi, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 37 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds (on 15-of-19 shooting from the field) for ALBA Berlin. Phoenix Hagen has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain thirteenth place with 8-12 record. ALBA Berlin at the other side dropped to the third position with six games lost. Phoenix Hagen will play against Mitteldeutscher BC (#15) in Weissenfels in the next round. ALBA Berlin will play on the road against TBB Trier (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Other games of round 19 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Phoenix Hagen were crushed by ALBA in Berlin 108-78. NY Phantoms beat EWE Baskets at home 78-70. TBB Trier won against Walter Tigers on the opponent's court 86-75. LTi 46ers were outscored by EnBW L'burg in a home game 54-88. MBC were rolled over Bremerhaven on the road 92-71. Dt.Bank SKY defeated ratiopharm on its own court 74-67. LTi 46ers was beaten by NY Phantoms in Braunschweig 87-75.

There was no surprise when 13th ranked Phoenix Hagen (8-12) was crushed on the road by fourth ranked ALBA Berlin (13-6) 108-78. The game without a history. ALBA Berlin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Phoenix Hagen's 32 and made 32-of-37 charity shots (86.5 percent) during the game, while Phoenix Hagen only scored sixteen points from the stripe. ALBA Berlin players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. Phoenix Hagen was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Derrick Allen (203-80, college: Mississippi, agency: Pro One Sports) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Julius Jenkins (187-81, college: Georgia Southern, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 24 points for the winners. Four ALBA Berlin players scored in double figures. Guard David Bell (186-81, college: Montana, agency: Impact Basketball) answered with 22 points and forward Jacob Burtschi (198-84, college: Air Force) added 16 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Phoenix Hagen. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. ALBA Berlin moved-up to third place. Phoenix Hagen at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 12 games lost. ALBA Berlin will play against TBB Trier (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Phoenix Hagen will play against Mitteldeutscher BC in Weissenfels and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:ALBA: J.Jenkins 24+3ast, D.Allen 22+7reb, Y.Idbihi 16+1reb, I.McElroy 15+7reb+2ast, B.Taylor 8+8reb+3ast, L.Staiger 7+1reb+3astPhoenix Hagen: D.Bell 22+4reb+3ast, J.Burtschi 16+5reb, M.Terwilliger 10+3reb+1ast, Q.Pryor 9+3reb+4ast, M.Dorris 6+3reb+3ast, B.Kruel 5+1reb

No shocking result in a game in Braunschweig where fifth ranked New Yorker Phantoms (13-7) defeated 8th ranked EWE Baskets (10-9) 78-70. EWE Baskets were ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 28-14 third quarter run of New Yorker Phantoms. They made 18-of-23 charity shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 EWE Baskets turnovers. New Yorker Phantoms players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Brandon Thomas (198-84, college: Massachusetts) who helped to win the game recording 15 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. American-Puerto Rican guard Kevin Hamilton (193-84, college: Holy Cross, agency: Limelight Hoops) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points, 10 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Five New Yorker Phantoms players scored in double figures. Lithuanian guard Mindaugas Lukauskis (198-79) answered with 20 points and American guard Louis Campbell (190-79, college: Buffalo, agency: Pro One Sports) added 15 points and 4 assists in the effort for EWE Baskets. New Yorker Phantoms has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place. EWE Baskets at the other side dropped to the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with TBB Trier. New Yorker Phantoms will play against ratiopharm Ulm (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. EWE Baskets will play against Artland Dragons in Quakenbrueck and hope to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:NY Phantoms: B.Thomas 15+4reb+5ast, K.Visser 14+6reb, J.Cain 12+7reb, K.Hamilton 11+2reb+10ast, T.Skinn 10+6reb+4ast, N.Mittmann 9+2reb+1astEWE Baskets: M.Lukauskis 20+3reb+3ast, L.Campbell 15+2reb+4ast, L.Bogdanovic 12+3reb, C.McNaughton 8+4reb+1ast, R.Smeulders 5+4reb, A.Baynes 4+2reb

Leader Brose Baskets delivered the nineteenth win on Sunday night. This time they crushed 18th ranked Gloria Giants (3-16) 98-61 in Bamberg. The game was mostly controlled by Brose Baskets. Gloria Giants managed to win second period 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Brose Baskets shot 62.7 percent from the field and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Gloria Giants' players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Brose Baskets made 7 blocks. Slovakian guard Anton Gavel (189-84, agency: Pro One Sports) fired 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. International power forward Tibor Pleiss (214-89) chipped in 16 points. Five Brose Baskets players scored in double figures. Brose Baskets' coach Chris Fleming felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard DeAndre Haynes (187-84, college: Kent St.) produced 12 points and 5 rebounds and Lithuanian forward Laimonas Kisielius (203-85, college: William & Mary) added 13 points respectively for lost side. Defending champion maintains first place with 19-1 record. Gloria Giants at the other side stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Brose Baskets are looking forward to face Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Gloria Giants will play against the league's second-placed Deutsche Bank Skyliners (#2) in Frankfurt and are hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident. Top scorers:Brose Baskets: A.Gavel 21+5reb+4ast, T.Pleiss 16+4reb+1ast, R.Terry 14+2reb, C.Jacobsen 12+2reb+4ast, B.Roberts 12+2reb+4ast, P.Neumann 6+2rebDuesseldorf: L.Kisielius 13+4reb+2ast, P.Pope 12+2ast, D.Haynes 12+5reb+2ast, J.Buck 8+3reb, S.Wright 7+2reb+1ast, R.Brempong 4+5reb+1ast

We should mention about the upset which took place in Hagen, where 4th placed ALBA Berlin (13-6) lost to thirteenth ranked Phoenix Hagen (8-12) in a road game 86-92. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But ALBA Berlin won third quarter 25-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. ALBA Berlin was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard David Bell (186-81, college: Montana, agency: Impact Basketball) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Forward Jacob Burtschi (198-84, college: Air Force) contributed with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Phoenix Hagen players scored in double figures. Phoenix Hagen's coach Ingo Freyer allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Derrick Allen (203-80, college: Mississippi, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 37 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds (on 15-of-19 shooting from the field) and guard Julius Jenkins (187-81, college: Georgia Southern, agency: Pro One Sports) added 18 points and 6 assists in the effort for ALBA Berlin. Phoenix Hagen has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain thirteenth place with 8-12 record. ALBA Berlin at the other side dropped to the third position with six games lost. Phoenix Hagen will play against Mitteldeutscher BC (#15) in Weissenfels in the next round. ALBA Berlin will play on the road against TBB Trier (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Phoenix Hagen: D.Bell 25+5reb+7ast, J.Burtschi 19+6reb+3ast, M.Dorris 15+3reb+1ast, Z.Jonusas 14+4reb, Q.Pryor 7+1ast, A.Buechert 6+4rebALBA: D.Allen 37+5reb, J.Jenkins 18+1reb+6ast, I.McElroy 9+2reb+1ast, P.Femerling 8+4reb, M.Marinovic 5+1reb+6ast, S.Schultze 4+3reb

Very expected game in Tuebingen where 14th ranked Walter Tigers (7-12) were defeated by tenth ranked TBB Trier (10-9) 86-75. It looked good early as Walter Tigers took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then TBB Trier had a 18-11 second period charge getting the lead and Walter Tigers were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 75-86. TBB Trier made 23-of-30 charity shots (76.7 percent) during the game. Walter Tigers were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American guard Dru Joyce (183-85, college: Akron) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 9 assists. The former international forward Philip Zwiener (198-85, agency: Court Side) contributed with 17 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) for the winners. Russian center Anatoly Kashirov (215-87) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian guard Branislav Ratkovica (193-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 10 points and 8 assists in the effort for Walter Tigers. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. TBB Trier moved-up to ninth place, which they share with EWE Baskets. Walter Tigers at the other side keep the fourteenth position with 12 games lost. TBB Trier will play against higher ranked ALBA Berlin (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Walter Tigers will play against Telekom Baskets (#7) in Bonn and hope to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:TBB Trier: D.Joyce 22+2reb+9ast, P.Zwiener 17+8reb+2ast, D.Dojcin 14+3reb+1ast, G.Evans 12+6reb, J.Bynum 8+4reb+2ast, M.Zirbes 6+4rebWalter Tigers: A.Kashirov 17+8reb, R.Markovic 15+1ast, B.Ratkovica 10+2reb+8ast, D.Watts 10+9reb+1ast, J.Herber 9+2ast, K.Wiliams 8+1ast

Very predictable result in Giessen where eleventh ranked EnBW Ludwigsburg (9-10) outscored 16th ranked LTi 46ers (5-15) 88-54. The game without a history. EnBW Ludwigsburg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to LTi 46ers' 24 and made 22-of-28 charity shots (78.6 percent) during the game. LTi 46ers were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American guard Jerry Green (191-80, college: Cal-Irvine) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 7 assists. Lithuanian forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh) contributed with 14 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four EnBW Ludwigsburg players scored in double figures. Power forward Jannik Freese (211-86, college: High School) answered with 5 points and 8 rebounds and forward Tim Schwartz (199-87) added 8 points in the effort for LTi 46ers. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. EnBW Ludwigsburg maintains eleventh place with 9-10 record. LTi 46ers lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 15 games lost. EnBW Ludwigsburg will play against higher ranked BG Goettingen (#8) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LTi 46ers will play against BBC Bayreuth (#17) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:EnBW L'burg: A.Harris 15+4reb, D.Zavackas 14+5reb+1ast, J.Green 13+3reb+7ast, R.Rickert 11+1reb, J.Bowler 9+4reb+1ast, S.Vene 9+1reb+1astLTi 46ers: M.Perl 8+1reb, C.Griffin 8+1reb+3ast, T.Schwartz 8+4reb+1ast, D.Madrich 6+3reb, R.Brooks 6+3reb+3ast, Z.Peacock 6+5reb+1ast

Not a big story in a game when 15th ranked Mitteldeutscher BC (5-14) was outplayed on the road by ninth ranked Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (11-8) 92-71. The game was mostly controlled by Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Mitteldeutscher BC managed to win third quarter 26-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven dominated on the defensive end, holding Mitteldeutscher BC to just 5 points in fourth quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Mitteldeutscher BC's 28. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. Mitteldeutscher BC was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American swingman Torrell Martin (196-85, college: Winthrop, agency: 540 Sports) who helped to win the game recording 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. His fellow American import power forward Andrew Drevo (202-81, college: Nebraska, agency: Warren Sports International) contributed with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four Eisbaeren Bremerhaven players scored in double figures. American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech, agency: World Sport Agency) answered with 19 points and Canadian-Serbian center Velimir Radinovic (212-81, college: Ohio St.) added 15 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Mitteldeutscher BC. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven moved-up to sixth place. Mitteldeutscher BC lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with 14 games lost. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven will play against league's leader Brose Baskets in Bamberg in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mitteldeutscher BC will play on the road against Phoenix Hagen (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Bremerhaven: T.Martin 19+7reb+5ast, A.Drevo 17+9reb+1ast, P.Schwethelm 16+1ast, J.Allen 13+4reb+4ast, S.Denison 8+4reb+2ast, J.Lipke 7MBC: R.Ross 19+4reb+3ast, V.Radinovic 15+8reb+2ast, R.Dramicanin 11+2reb+1ast, W.Bernard 9+2reb+5ast, R.Shields 7+3reb+4ast, G.Grunheid 5+10reb+1ast

Everything went according to plan in Frankfurt where second ranked Deutsche Bank Skyliners (14-5) won against 12th ranked ratiopharm Ulm (8-11) 74-67. ratiopharm Ulm was ahead by 5 points at the halftime before a 36-24 second half run of Deutsche Bank Skyliners. They dominated on the defensive end, holding ratiopharm Ulm to just 5 points in fourth quarter. It was a very good performance for American guard DaShaun Wood (185-85, college: Wright St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 assists and 5 steals. His fellow American import guard Quantez Robertson (190-84, college: Auburn) contributed with 14 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Robertson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Deutsche Bank Skyliners players scored in double figures. International forward Robin Benzing (208-89) answered with 20 points and American center John Bryant (208-87, college: Santa Clara) added 9 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for ratiopharm Ulm. Deutsche Bank Skyliners maintains second place with 14-5 record having six points less than leader Brose Baskets. ratiopharm Ulm at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 11 games lost. Deutsche Bank Skyliners will play against bottom-ranked Gloria Giants (#18) in Duesseldorf in the next round which should be an easy win for them. ratiopharm Ulm will play at home against New Yorker Phantoms (#4) in Braunschweig and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Dt.Bank SKY: D.Wood 17+2reb+12ast, Q.Robertson 14+6reb+1ast, M.Nolte 12+1reb, J.McKinney 11+2reb+2ast, C.Moss 9+10reb, R.Powell 7+4rebratiopharm: R.Benzing 20+4reb, R.Trice 13+5reb, S.Betz 11+2reb, J.Bryant 9+13reb+1ast, P.Guenther 6+1reb+3ast, C.Collins 4+3reb+4ast

gschID: 93038

Round 26

There was no surprise in Braunschweig where 16th ranked LTi 46ers (5-15) were defeated by fifth ranked New Yorker Phantoms (13-7) 87-75. The game was mostly controlled by New Yorker Phantoms. LTi 46ers managed to win fourth quarter 24-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded LTi 46ers 35-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. New Yorker Phantoms players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a very good performance for American center Kyle Visser (211-85, college: Wake Forest) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 6 rebounds. American-Nigerian guard Tony Skinn (185-83, college: George Mason) contributed with 15 points and 6 assists for the winners. American guard Anthony Smith (196-86, college: Liberty, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 30 points and 4 steals and Bosnian power forward Elvir Ovcina (211-76, college: Syracuse, agency: Interperformances) added 8 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for LTi 46ers. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. New Yorker Phantoms has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place. LTi 46ers lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 15 games lost. New Yorker Phantoms will play against ratiopharm Ulm (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. LTi 46ers will play against BBC Bayreuth (#17) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:NY Phantoms: K.Visser 16+6reb+1ast, B.Thomas 15+1reb+1ast, T.Skinn 15+6ast, N.Schneiders 9+5reb, J.Cain 9+2reb+2ast, L.Greer 7+1reb+4astLTi 46ers: A.Smith 30+2reb+2ast, Z.Peacock 14+2reb, E.Ovcina 8+8reb+3ast, C.Griffin 7+1reb+4ast, D.Madrich 6+3reb, J.Freese 3

gschID: 111478

John Bynum (TBB Trier) I Would Really Like To Be Able To Do A Lebron James Break Away Reverse Dunk Off One Leg - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberJohn Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 32 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that is playing his first season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who can shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke with eurobasket before the 2011BEKO BBL Allstar game

At the halfway point, TBB Trier is in 10th place with a 10-9 record. How pleased are you with the current place?

I think we came out and we have suprised a lot of people but at the same time coach believed in us in the whole time and his attitude rubbed off on everyone. I still think we should have a better record but at the same time I think we have a good shot at making the playoffs.

What will the team need to improve in the second half to be one of the 8 playoff teams?

I think we have to continue to improve and find a way to put points on the board on a consistent basis. We will always be in games because we play solid defense we just have to find a way to outscore our opponents.

What are you most looking forward to at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game besides the slam dunk contest?

I am just looking forward to see all the different players and interact with some that I have never met before. It is always a good time meeting new people and having a good time with different players and learning about their backgrounds a llittle bit.

Who were your favorite dunkers in the NBA as a kid and why?

Michael Jordan, Dominque Wilkins, and Vince Carter

Who was your favorite slam dunk partcipant at the NBA Allstar games as a kid and why?

I think the best dunker is Blake Griffin hands down. He may not be the most creative but he has done some things this season that makes me shake my head.

You were the English NBL Slam Dunk Contest winner in 2002. What was your fondest memory from this experience?

Well that was a long time ago when I had young legs, but it was a great experience being fresh out of college and it was a good time entertaining the fans and just having a good time with other players.

What has changed the most on professional dunk contests since 2002?

I think it is moer about creativity now a days because we have seen a lot of things that have already been done. So now a days players have to be more creative and add some kind of entertainment or something to make their dunks stand out more.

What can we expect from the 2011 BEKO BBL slam dunk contest?

I'm not sure how to answer that one but I'm sure you will get some entertainment in some kind of way.

How are you preparing for the dunk contest?

I'm just kinda getting a list of dunks in my head and hopefully no one will do what I had in my mind before its my turn comes around.

Who do you think will be your biggest challenge in the dunk contest? Tez, Mark Dorris Steven Wright or Torrell Martin?

All those guys are challengers. They are well known dunkers around the leauge, so the good thing is that no one is expecting anything from me since I dont dunk a lot in games. But all them guys have a great chance of winning and hopefully we all can give the fans a good show.

What is a dunk you would really like to be able to do?

I would really like to be able to do Lebron James breakaway reverse dunk off of one leg, I cant jump off of one foot to save my life.

Who will win the three point shooting contest?

Casey Jacobsen.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game?

I got to go with my teammates team so the south of course.

Thanks John for the chat

Luka Pavicevic No Longer Head Coach Of 8 Time BEKO BBL Champion Alba Berlin - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberThe BEKO BBL Allstar game is supposed to take center stage tomorrow, but 24 hours before the game will take place in Trier, 8 time BEKO BBL team Alba Berlin have supplied the German basketball world with extreme hot news announcing that head coach Serbian Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) is no longer head coach on the Spree in Berlin. The 42 year old Pavicevic who won 3 Euroleagues as a player with Jugoplastika Split with Toni Kucic and Dino Radja was coach for Alba Berlin since 2007. Currently he led Alba Berlin to a fourth position with a record of 13-6 and qualifyed for the next round of the Eurocup at the halfway point of the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. Despite winning the 2008 BEKO BBL title and 2009 BEKO BBL cup, it seemed like a majority of the Alba Berlin fans were not totally satisfyed with his work. 'Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) is a declared Basketball expert with big qualities. However with the current constellation of how we want to reach our goals this season have strongly suffered in the last weeks. On account of this we have decided to take this step. This was a decision which was very difficult to take',stressed Alba Berlin CEO Marco Baldi A new coach will be named shortly and until then the club will be run by the assistant coaching staff.

Fenerbahce Ulker exploded in the last quarter against Olympiakos (29-12), what allowed them to register very important road win at the beginning of Top 16 phase. The Turkish champ celebrated 70-84 victory and they share the first place in Group H with Valencia, who also won in Round One. Marko Tomas (201-G-85) top-scored for Fener with 19 points and his countrymate Roko-Leni Ukic (195-G-84) added 17 pts. Omer Onan (194-G-78) followed them with 14 points. For the Reds, Thodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77, agency: FCM) came up with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) stopped to 14 pts.Olympiakos was slightly better team in Q1 as they had 18-16 lead. Visitors made 24-27 turn at halfway of the second period and they later jumped to 26-33, but Vassilis Spanoulis and Nesterovic then stepped up for the hosts tying the score to 33-33 until the halftime. Teams exchanged in lead during the entire third period and thanks to Halperin and Spanoulis, the Reds were 58-55 up after it. All after that belonged to Fenerbahce Ulker. First they made 63-64 turn and few minutes later it already was 65-73 for the Turkish champ. Olympiacos kept struggling to score right when it mattered and Ukic capped a game-breaking 0-12 run with a free throw, 65-76. Olympiacos had been scoreless for more than 5 minutes. Visitors managed to stay in control and to keep their lead until the end of the game. In the next round, Fenerbahce Ulker waits Valencia. Olympiakos will go to Kaunas.

Afrobasket 2011: Armando Costa ready for the competition - by Olusegun Ikuesan1 de Agosto basketball player Armando Costa, on Tuesday here said he is ready to play at the African Championship of Basketball (Afrobasket2011), after an injury that lasted six months.

Speaking to ANGOP, while watching the game between 1 de Agosto and Recreativo do Libolo, he said he is totally recovered from the surgery and he only needs to restore the physical condition.

'I have returned to play and not for recovery works. I am available to play already for 1 de Agosto and the national team, but everything will depend on the coach's option', he explained.

The player said that his recovery after the surgery happened in Portugal, where he was until last Saturday, after which he returned to Angola.

Armando Costa, 27, got injured at the final of the 2010 Angola Cup of Basketball, in a game against Recreativo do Libolo.

Wendell White's triple-double lands him BJ League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket NewsAmerican Wendell White (198-G-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Kyoto Hannaryz and that's him to receive a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 27.The 26-year old guard recorded a triple-double of 29 points and addedfifteen rebounds and thirteen assists, while his team crushed Shiga Lakestars (#2, 16-10) with 21-point margin 105-84. Kyoto Hannaryz maintains the 5th position in Japanese BJ League. Kyoto Hannaryz is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 13-13 record. In the team's last game White had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Kyoto Hannaryz's top player in his first season with the team. University of Nevada -Las Vegas graduate has very impressive stats this year. White is in league's top in points (4th best: 20.3ppg), rebounds (8th best: 10.5rpg) and averages solid 60.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American swingman Michael Parker (200-G/F-81) of Fukuoka Rizing. Parker impressed basketball fans with 40 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course he lead Fukuoka Rizing to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Akita (#6, 9-17) 115-90. Fukuoka Rizing's 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 16-12 record is not bad at all. Parker is one of the most experienced players at Fukuoka Rizing and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 28.6ppg (#1). He also registered 10.5 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Zachary Andrews (203-F/C-85) of Niigata Albirex (#3). Andrews scored 18 points and grabbed twenty rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Niigata Albirex, leading his team to a 75-62 easy win against the lower-ranked Oita H.Devils (#6, 12-16). Niigata Albirex needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 11 lost games. Andrews has a great season in Japan. After 24 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 12.4rpg (3rd best).

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

JBL support Hokkaido with financial problems - by Hiroyuki AnnoJBL announced on Jan 20th that there is financial problems in Rera Kamuy Hokkaido.League and Fantasia Entertainment (club company) talked from December about this issue.It become public in Japan that Rera Kamuy Hokkaido has not paid league fee for past two years. Also there was some delay of payment for players and coach.

After league official meeting, JBL judged it is difficult to leave this problem as it is andannounced JBO (Japan basketball Operation) become new club company for Rera Kamuy Hokkaido for the rest of this season.

Head coach Joe Bryant is released. Assistant coach, Kaneta Yoshinori is appointed new head coach.JBO is trying to find new owner company for 2011-2012 season.

Source: http://www.jbl.or.jp/topics/?p=4842

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LATVIA

LBL D2 Round 13: Jurmala keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket NewsThe game had a very big importance for second-ranked Jurmala as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Jurmala smashed 5th ranked Gulbene at home 93-55. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gulbene at the other side dropped to the sixth place with six games lost. Gulbene will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Jurmala will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Zemgale/Juniors in Jelgava. The game in Gulbene was quite interesting. Third ranked Ventspils Augstskola (10-3) played at the court of 5th ranked Gulbene (8-6). Ventspils Augstskola managed to secure a 6-point victory 89-83. Ventspils Augstskola has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 10-3 record behind leader Jurmala. Gulbene at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. Ventspils Augstskola will play against BAA Riga (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Gulbene will have a break next round.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 13: Zemgale/Jun. won against BAA Riga on the opponent's court 100-95. Ridzene was outscored by Zemgale/Jun. in a home game 69-89. Bottom-ranked VEF Kadeti was rolled over Jurmala on the road 97-78. Livani was defeated by Ventspils Aug. on its own court 63-76.

There was a minor upset when 6th ranked BAA Riga (6-6) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Zemgale/Juniors (8-5) 100-95. Zemgale/Juniors have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place. BAA Riga lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with six games lost. They share it with Daugava. Zemgale/Juniors will play against league's leader Jurmala at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BAA Riga will play against Ventspils Augstskola (#3) and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Rather predictable result in Riga where sixth ranked Zemgale/Juniors (8-5) smashed 10th ranked Ridzene (2-11) 89-69. Zemgale/Juniors have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place. Ridzene at the other side keeps the tenth position with 11 games lost. Zemgale/Juniors will play against league's leader Jurmala at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ridzene will play against Liepaja-2 (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Jurmala as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Jurmala smashed 5th ranked Gulbene at home 93-55. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gulbene at the other side dropped to the sixth place with six games lost. Gulbene will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Jurmala will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Zemgale/Juniors in Jelgava.

Not a big story in a game when 12th ranked VEF Kadeti (1-11) was rolled over on the road by second ranked Jurmala (11-2) 97-78. Jurmala keeps a position of league leader. VEF Kadeti at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Livani. Jurmala will play against Zemgale/Juniors (#5) in Jelgava in the next round. VEF Kadeti will play at home against Livani (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The game in Gulbene was quite interesting. Third ranked Ventspils Augstskola (10-3) played at the court of 5th ranked Gulbene (8-6). Ventspils Augstskola managed to secure a 6-point victory 89-83. Ventspils Augstskola has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 10-3 record behind leader Jurmala. Gulbene at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. Ventspils Augstskola will play against BAA Riga (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Gulbene will have a break next round.

Everything went according to plan when third ranked Ventspils Augstskola (10-3) beat on the road 11th ranked Livani (1-11) 76-63. Ventspils Augstskola has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 10-3 record behind leader Jurmala. Livani lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 11 games lost. They share it with VEF Kadeti. Ventspils Augstskola will play against BAA Riga (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Livani will play against VEF Kadeti in Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

gschID: 120473

LBL Round 15: Latvijas Universitate defeats Valmiera in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsThere was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most exciting game of round 15 in the LBL took place in Riga. This game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 5th ranked Valmiera (6-7) to eighth ranked Latvijas Universitate (2-13) 81-79 on Sunday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valmiera won fourth quarter 31-25. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Valmiera outrebounded Latvijas Universitate 41-27 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. 25 personal fouls committed by Valmiera helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for power forward Edmunds Tukiss (200-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points. Forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) helped adding 17 points and 11 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Lithuanian forward Arturas Valeika (206-85, college: Midland CC) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. Valmiera's coach Gatis Melderis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate maintains eighth place with 2-13 record. Valmiera at the other side keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. They share it with Zemgale. Latvijas Universitate's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga junior. Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Riga: Barons (#4) and Latvijas Universitate (#8). Barons (8-7) crushed visiting Latvijas Universitate (2-13) by 18 points 88-70. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Derek Willjam (185-85, college: SMU) who led the winners and scored 19 points and 6 assists. Agnis Cavars accounted for 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Guard Krists Piternieks (202-87, agency: FCM) came up with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for Latvijas Universitate in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Barons has a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 8-7 record. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Barons will play against league's second-placed Liepaja on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Latvijas Universitate's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga junior. The game between Top Four teams took place in Ventspils. First ranked host Ventspils (12-1) defeated second-best Liepaja (11-4) 77-59. The best player for the winners was Arturs Strelnieks who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Ashton Mitchell who recorded 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Liepaja's coach Agris Galvanovskis tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Ventspils have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-1 record. Loser Liepaja keeps the second position with four games lost. Ventspils will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Liepaja will play against Zemgale in Jelgava and hope to secure a win. The game in Turiba supposed to be quite interesting. Second ranked Liepaja (11-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Turiba (3-13). Liepaja smashed Turiba 93-69. It was a good game for Raimonds Vaikulis who led his team to a victory with 21 points (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Liepaja maintains second place with 11-4 record behind leader Ventspils. Turiba lost their seventh game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Liepaja's next round opponent will be Zemgale (#5) in Jelgava. The game in Turiba was quite interesting. Third ranked VEF Riga junior (9-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Turiba (3-13). VEF Riga junior defeated Turiba 82-71 on Wednesday. It was a great evening for Gatis Jahovics who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. VEF Riga junior's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Newly promoted VEF Riga junior maintains third place with 9-5 record having just two points less than leader Ventspils. Turiba lost their seventh game in a row. Turiba at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. VEF Riga junior's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Latvijas Universitate.

The game in Turiba supposed to be quite interesting. Second ranked Liepaja (11-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Turiba (3-13). Liepaja smashed Turiba 93-69. The game was mostly controlled by Liepaja. Turiba managed to win third quarter 26-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Liepaja dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Turiba's 44. Liepaja had a 26-14 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for the former international guard Raimonds Vaikulis (191-80) who led his team to a victory with 21 points (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Forward Mareks Mejeris (199-91) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks for the winners. Five Liepaja players scored in double figures. Center Roberts Mednis (204-89) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds and forward Lauris Mizis (196-89) added 7 points in the effort for Turiba. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Liepaja maintains second place with 11-4 record behind leader Ventspils. Turiba lost their seventh game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Liepaja's next round opponent will be Zemgale (#5) in Jelgava. Top scorers:Turiba: R.Mednis 19+9reb+2ast, J.Antrops 7+3reb+1ast, L.Mizis 7+3reb+1ast, M.Motivans 6+1reb+2ast, A.Servuts 6, N.Sondors 5+2rebLiepaja: R.Vaikulis 21+3reb+2ast, A.Mitchell 17+2reb+3ast, M.Meiers 15+4reb, M.Mejeris 14+11reb+1ast, J.Aleksejevs 12+8reb+2ast, P.Caldwell 6+2reb+2ast

Another exciting game was a match between two teams from Riga: Barons (#4) and Latvijas Universitate (#8). Barons (8-7) crushed visiting Latvijas Universitate (2-13) by 18 points 88-70. The game without a history. Barons led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. Barons outrebounded Latvijas Universitate 40-24 including 28 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Derek Willjam (185-85, college: SMU) who led the winners and scored 19 points and 6 assists. Forward Agnis Cavars (198-86) accounted for 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Guard Krists Piternieks (202-87, agency: FCM) came up with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Martins Dargis (199-91) added 12 points respectively for Latvijas Universitate in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Barons has a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 8-7 record. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Barons will play against league's second-placed Liepaja on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Latvijas Universitate's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga junior. Top scorers:LU: K.Piternieks 12+11reb+4ast, M.Dargis 12+2reb+1ast, E.Tukiss 11+1reb, A.Duselis 10+1reb, K.Brigmanis 9+3reb+3ast, H.Rubenis 9+2rebBarons: D.Willjam 19+3reb+6ast, A.Cavars 17+7reb+2ast, A.Butjankovs 10+8reb+1ast, I.Timermanis 10+3reb, S.Silavs 8+5reb+2ast, J.Timma 7+2reb

The game between Top Four teams took place in Ventspils. First ranked host Ventspils (12-1) defeated second-best Liepaja (11-4) 77-59. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-59. Ventspils made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Ventspils outrebounded Liepaja 47-35 including a 35-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was swingman Arturs Strelnieks (196-85) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds. Lithuanian power forward Saulius Kuzminskas (210-82, college: California) chipped in 12 points and 9 rebounds. Four Ventspils players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Ashton Mitchell (180-88, college: Sam Houston St.) who recorded 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and center Martins Meiers (202-91) added 8 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Liepaja's coach Agris Galvanovskis tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Ventspils have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-1 record. Loser Liepaja keeps the second position with four games lost. Ventspils will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Liepaja will play against Zemgale in Jelgava and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Liepaja: A.Mitchell 18+5reb+4ast, J.Aleksejevs 8+3reb, M.Meiers 8+8reb+1ast, P.Caldwell 7+3reb+2ast, R.Vaikulis 7+3reb+1ast, J.Kosuskins 5+6rebVentspils: R.Anderson 15+5reb, A.Strelnieks 15+14reb+2ast, A.Berzins 15+6reb, S.Kuzminskas 12+9reb+3ast, L.Blaus 7+5reb, S.Buskevics 5+5reb+9ast

The most exciting game of round 15 in the LBL took place in Riga. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 5th ranked Valmiera (6-7) to eighth ranked Latvijas Universitate (2-13) 81-79 on Sunday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valmiera won fourth quarter 31-25. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Valmiera outrebounded Latvijas Universitate 41-27 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. 25 personal fouls committed by Valmiera helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for power forward Edmunds Tukiss (200-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points. Forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) helped adding 17 points and 11 rebounds. Four Latvijas Universitate players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Lithuanian forward Arturas Valeika (206-85, college: Midland CC) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and guard Janis Kaufmanis (185-89) scored 20 points. Valmiera's coach Gatis Melderis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate maintains eighth place with 2-13 record. Valmiera at the other side keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. They share it with Zemgale. Latvijas Universitate's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga junior. Top scorers:Valmiera: A.Valeika 22+13reb, J.Kaufmanis 20+3reb+2ast, J.Berzins 15+7reb+2ast, K.Ansons 9+2reb+1ast, P.Veselovs 6+3reb+2ast, J.Graudins 3+4rebLU: E.Tukiss 23+3reb+3ast, A.Duselis 17+11reb+1ast, H.Rubenis 11+4reb+1ast, K.Brigmanis 10+2reb, A.Slisans 9+3reb, M.Dargis 4

The game in Turiba was quite interesting. Third ranked VEF Riga junior (9-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Turiba (3-13). VEF Riga junior defeated Turiba 82-71 on Wednesday. The game without a history. VEF Riga junior led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Turiba's 30. VEF Riga junior forced 27 Turiba turnovers and outrebounded them 40-23 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Turiba was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for the former international forward Gatis Jahovics (200-84) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Montenegrin guard Bojan Bakic (197-83, agency: Alti Sport) helped adding 25 points. VEF Riga junior's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was center Roberts Mednis (204-89) with 12 points and 9 rebounds and swingman Eduards Kikuts (196-88) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds. Four VEF Riga junior and five Turiba players scored in double figures. Newly promoted VEF Riga junior maintains third place with 9-5 record having just two points less than leader Ventspils. Turiba lost their seventh game in a row. Turiba at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. VEF Riga junior's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Latvijas Universitate. Top scorers:Turiba: A.Servuts 16+2ast, J.Dilevka 13+2reb, E.Kikuts 12+5reb+1ast, R.Mednis 12+9reb+3ast, L.Mizis 10+2ast, M.Motivans 4+2reb+5astVEF Riga jrs: B.Bakic 25+2reb, G.Jahovics 18+10reb, M.Laksa 15+9reb+1ast, I.Nelyubov 14+7reb+2ast, K.Mediss 7+1reb, A.Selakovs 3+5reb+1ast

Group D

Capitanes - Halc.Rojos 87-81Capitanes de Arecibo edge Halcones Rojos on the final day of Liga Americas Group D action. The victory propelled the hosts on top of the ladder. Halcones Rojos finished second as both teams advanced into the next round. Roberto Jose Hatton (187-G-76, college: Marist) came up with 23 points to lead the Puerto Rican powerhouse. Capitanes had their backs against the wall and they started the game aggressively. But Halcones Rojos were ready for the challenge. Capitanes managed to eke out just a one-point lead after ten minutes. Latimer knocked down 7 points in the second frame to help Capitanes take a 45:40 halftime lead. The margin grew throughout the third term. The home side accumulated a 64:53 lead with ten minutes to go. Halcones Rojos however showed their character. The Mexican side cut the deficit to a single point 81:82 with under a minute to go. But Roberto Jose Hatton came up with a decisive steal in the final seconds and Capitanes ward off the victory. Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) scored 18 points, while Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) added 16 in the victory. Joel Reynoso (190-G-85) replied with 24 points for Halcones Rojos.

Cocodrilos - Sionista 73-68Cocodrilos finished their Liga Americas campaign with a loud bang. They knocked down Sionista eliminating the Argentinean team from the tournament. Both teams finished Group D action at 1-2 record and failed to reach the next stage. Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) came up with 20 points to lead the Venezuelan team. The teams looked well-matched in the first half. The first period ended in an 18:18 draw. Cocodrilos pulled ahead late in the second term to post a 39:37 lead. Sionista did not allow their opponents to run away as they trailed by a single point heading into the fourth term. But Cocodrilos used a 10:0 run in the fourth term to clear off. Sionista failed to respond and had to surrender at the end. Jack Michael Martinez tallied 15 points and 15 boards for Cocodrilos. Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84, college: S.Carolina) finished with 9 points in the win. Cleotis Brown (198-G/F-77, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Illinois) produced 24 points for Sionista. Pedro Franco (187-G-81) added 13 points in the loss.

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LITHUANIA

NKL Round 27: Meresta is upset by Mazeikiai - by Eurobasket NewsThe round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game between second ranked Meresta (18-8) and sixth ranked Mazeikiai (17-9) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Meresta was crushed by Mazeikiai in Mazeikiai 79-57. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-57. The best player for the winners was American swingman Jason Warren (201-84, college: Missouri Western) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll.) chipped in 20 points and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Simonas Slivka (194-86) who recorded 9 points and 11 rebounds. Mazeikiai moved-up to fourth place. Meresta at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Mazeikiai are looking forward to face Erelita-KTU (#13) in Kaunas in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Meresta will have a break next round. Leader Pieno Zvaigzdes delivered the twentieth fourth victory. This time they crushed 15th ranked Puntukas (6-19) 128-53 in Anyksciai. It was a good game for forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 rebounds. Arnas Kazlauskas contributed with 19 points for the winners. Forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) answered with 16 points for Puntukas. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Pieno Zvaigzdes (24-1) have an impressive series of sixteen victories in a row. They maintain first place. Puntukas lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Triobet Malsta (#10) in Jonava in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Puntukas will play on the road against Delikatesas (#11) in Joniskis and hopes to get back on the winning track. A very close game took place in Jonava between Erelita-KTU and Triobet Malsta. Fourteenth ranked Erelita-KTU (7-18) got a very close victory on the road over higher ranked Triobet Malsta (10-15). Erelita-KTU managed to escape with a 3-point win 78-75 on Friday evening. It was a great evening for Rokas Cepanonis who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 5 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Tadas Sebeziovas with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Erelita-KTU moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Akademija and ABRO-Univ. Loser Triobet Malsta dropped to the ninth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Silute. Erelita-KTU will meet at home higher ranked Mazeikiai (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Triobet Malsta will play against the league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. We should mention about the upset which took place in Silute, where higher ranked Silute (10-15) lost at home to fourteenth ranked Akademija (7-18) 86-91. It was an exceptional evening for Egidijus Mockevicius who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 20 rebounds and 5 blocks. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Akademija moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with ABRO-Univ. and Erelita. Silute at the other side keeps the ninth position with 15 games lost. Akademija's next round opponent will be higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. An interesting game took place in Kaunas, where 4th placed LKKA-Atletas (16-9) lost at home to eleventh ranked Delikatesas (8-17) 69-85 on Friday. The best player for the winners was Zilvinas Petraitis who scored 31 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 9 steals. LKKA-Atletas' coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Delikatesas maintains eleventh place with 8-17 record. Loser LKKA-Atletas dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. Delikatesas will face bottom-ranked Puntukas (#15) in Anyksciai in the next round. LKKA-Atletas will play on the road against Nafta Universitetas (#7) in Klaipeda and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 27 Perlas-MRU defeated ABRO-Univ. in Vilnius 70-62. Zalgiris-Sabonio was beaten by Nafta Universitetas at home 72-84.

The game between second ranked Meresta (18-8) and sixth ranked Mazeikiai (17-9) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Meresta was crushed by Mazeikiai in Mazeikiai 79-57. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-57. The best player for the winners was American swingman Jason Warren (201-84, college: Missouri Western) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll.) chipped in 20 points and 6 assists. Warren is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Mazeikiai players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Simonas Slivka (194-86) who recorded 9 points and 11 rebounds and guard Tomas Balciunas (186-79) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Mazeikiai moved-up to fourth place. Meresta at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Mazeikiai are looking forward to face Erelita-KTU (#13) in Kaunas in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Meresta will have a break next round. Top scorers:Meresta: T.Druktenis 10+2reb+1ast, T.Balciunas 9+5reb+1ast, S.Slivka 9+11reb+2ast, V.Padgureckas 7+1reb+2ast, A.Danusevicius 7+1reb+1ast, L.Radavicius 6+7rebMazeikiai: B.Harrison 20+1reb+6ast, J.Warren 18+11reb+3ast, M.Sidlauskas 12+6reb, M.Kumpys 11+6reb, V.Luksa 9+6reb+2ast, D.Vaitelis 5+3reb

There was no surprise in Siauliai where 12th ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-18) was defeated by eighth ranked Perlas-MRU (12-14) 70-62 on Friday. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 8 points. Perlas-MRU dominated on the defensive end, holding ABRO-Universitetas to just 7 points in second quarter. ABRO-Universitetas was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was swingman Laurynas Jacevicius (193-88) who scored 22 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) who recorded 22 points and 7 rebounds and center Ignas Ramasauskas (210-93) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Perlas-MRU maintains eighth place with 12-14 record. ABRO-Universitetas lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 18 games lost. Perlas-MRU will face Silute (#9) at home in the next round. ABRO-Universitetas will play against Radviliskis. Top scorers:ABRO-Univ.: A.Kvedaravicius 22+7reb, I.Ramasauskas 11+7reb+2ast, A.Kurauskas 7+4reb+4ast, A.Gurklys 5+8reb+2ast, P.Rasamavicius 5+3reb+2ast, P.Knyza 4+1reb+1astPerlas-MRU: L.Jacevicius 22+7reb+2ast, K.Brusokas 16+9reb, M.Kazonas 13+7reb+4ast, G.Ramonas 5+3reb+4ast, E.Seskus 5+3reb, A.Udras 4+7reb

We should mention about the upset which took place in Silute, where higher ranked Silute (10-15) lost at home to fourteenth ranked Akademija (7-18) 86-91. Silute was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 26-18 third quarter run of Akademija. They also forced 19 Silute turnovers. 32 personal fouls committed by Silute helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was an exceptional evening for center Egidijus Mockevicius (204-92) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 20 rebounds and 5 blocks. Guard Karolis Alekna (183-91) accounted for 22 points, 6 assists and 5 steals for the winning side. Swingman Vytautas Nedzinskas (196-87) came up with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Evaldas Jurkus (190-84) added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Silute in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Akademija moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with ABRO-Univ. and Erelita. Silute at the other side keeps the ninth position with 15 games lost. Akademija's next round opponent will be higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Top scorers:Silute: F.Eshon 23+3reb+4ast, E.Jurkus 18+7reb+5ast, V.Nedzinskas 16+13reb+5ast, E.Kaupaitis 12+6reb, J.Cesnavicius 5+2reb+1ast, A.Vaitiekus 4+3rebAkademija: K.Alekna 22+3reb+6ast, T.Lekunas 19+3reb+3ast, E.Mockevicius 18+20reb, M.Paliukenas 17+4reb+2ast, O.Olisevicius 8+7reb+1ast, T.Pipiras 5+4reb

There was a small surprise in Kaunas where seventh ranked Nafta Universitetas (14-11) defeated 5th ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (16-9) 84-72 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Nafta Universitetas. Zalgiris-Sabonio managed to win third quarter 16-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nafta Universitetas forced 20 Zalgiris-Sabonio turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Mindaugas Girdziunas (188-89) who scored 26 points. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) chipped in 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was center Gediminas Zyle (209-88) who recorded 21 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Paulius Sorokas (198-92) added 14 points and 6 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Nafta Universitetas maintains seventh place with 14-11 record. Loser Zalgiris-Sabonio keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. Nafta Universitetas will face higher ranked LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play on the road against Akademija in Vilnius. Top scorers:Zalgiris-Sabonio: G.Zyle 21+8reb+1ast, P.Sorokas 14+4reb+6ast, M.Kupsas 11+10reb, V.Kariniauskas 11+1reb+1ast, M.Rutkauskas 4+2reb, Z.Skucas 4+1reb+2astNafta Universitetas: M.Girdziunas 26+1reb+1ast, V.Chodosovskis 16+6reb+2ast, J.Kazakauskas 14+8reb+5ast, H.Venskus 11+4reb+4ast, D.Norkus 7+7reb+7ast, D.Anuzis 5+1reb+2ast

An interesting game took place in Kaunas, where 4th placed LKKA-Atletas (16-9) lost at home to eleventh ranked Delikatesas (8-17) 69-85 on Friday. It was a great shooting night for Delikatesas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 61.5 percentage. The best player for the winners was swingman Zilvinas Petraitis (194-88) who scored 31 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 9 steals. Center Julius Jucikas (205-89) chipped in 17 points and 7 rebounds. Five Delikatesas players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) who recorded 22 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists and guard Darius Gricius (195-86) added 20 points respectively. LKKA-Atletas' coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Delikatesas maintains eleventh place with 8-17 record. Loser LKKA-Atletas dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. Delikatesas will face bottom-ranked Puntukas (#15) in Anyksciai in the next round. LKKA-Atletas will play on the road against Nafta Universitetas (#7) in Klaipeda and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:LKKA-Atletas: S.Vingelis 22+6reb+7ast, D.Gricius 20+4reb, V.Sragauskis 7+2reb, P.Malasauskas 4+7reb+6ast, Z.Krupskis 4+3ast, E.Tviraga 4+2rebDelikatesas: Z.Petraitis 31+5reb+4ast, J.Jucikas 17+7reb, L.Kutra 11+6reb+6ast, V.Pikalavicius 10+6reb+3ast, J.Blazys 10+5reb+2ast, P.Klemas 3+2reb+1ast

Leader Pieno Zvaigzdes delivered the twentieth fourth victory. This time they crushed 15th ranked Puntukas (6-19) 128-53 in Anyksciai. The game without a history. Pieno Zvaigzdes led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Puntukas to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Pieno Zvaigzdes dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Puntukas' 30 and had 21 for 32 from the free-throw line, while Puntukas only scored two points from the stripe. Pieno Zvaigzdes forced 29 Puntukas turnovers and outrebounded them 40-25 including a 27-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Pieno Zvaigzdes players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists comparing to just 14 passes made by Puntukas' players. They brought some defensive toughness making 9 blocks. Puntukas was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 rebounds. Power forward Arnas Kazlauskas (204-76, agency: Court Side) contributed with 19 points for the winners. Five Pieno Zvaigzdes players scored in double figures. Forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) answered with 16 points and forward Andrius Urbonas (202-91) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Puntukas. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Pieno Zvaigzdes (24-1) have an impressive series of sixteen victories in a row. They maintain first place. Puntukas lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Triobet Malsta (#10) in Jonava in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Puntukas will play on the road against Delikatesas (#11) in Joniskis and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Puntukas: D.Tarvydas 16+1reb+2ast, G.Marciukaitis 10+2reb+1ast, A.Urbonas 10+6reb+2ast, T.Galeckas 4+3reb+1ast, D.Keburys 4+2reb+1ast, K.Jonuska 4+4reb+2astPieno Zvaigzdes: D.Griskenas 20+5reb+2ast, G.Vileita 20+4ast, A.Kazlauskas 19+3reb+3ast, Z.Fredrick 15+1reb+3ast, R.Sugintas 11+3reb, M.Virbalas 11+6reb+2ast

A very close game took place in Jonava between Erelita-KTU and Triobet Malsta. Fourteenth ranked Erelita-KTU (7-18) got a very close victory on the road over higher ranked Triobet Malsta (10-15). Erelita-KTU managed to escape with a 3-point win 78-75 on Friday evening. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 16-9. But Triobet Malsta won second period 25-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Erelita-KTU forced 22 Triobet Malsta turnovers. It was a great evening for power forward Rokas Cepanonis (207-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Matas Lisajevicius (190-91) helped adding 17 points. Four Erelita-KTU players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) with 18 points and 6 rebounds and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (202-90) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. Erelita-KTU moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Akademija and ABRO-Univ. Loser Triobet Malsta dropped to the ninth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Silute. Erelita-KTU will meet at home higher ranked Mazeikiai (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Triobet Malsta will play against the league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Top scorers:Triobet Malsta: H.Vorotnikovas 19+6reb, T.Sebeziovas 18+6reb+1ast, T.Milinskas 13+9reb+3ast, A.Vasiliauskas 9+2reb+3ast, Z.Danielius 6+3reb+1ast, R.Juknevicius 6+2rebErelita: R.Cepanonis 18+5reb, M.Lisajevicius 17+3reb+2ast, K.Pupinis 15+6reb, M.Sapiega 15+3reb+3ast, M.Mackevicius 9, V.Pliauga 3+3reb+1ast

Pioneros and Toros advance to LNBP Semifinals - by Eurobasket NewsPioneros and Toros managed to beat their rivals in Game Four and to win the series with almost perfect 3-1. It means that both teams booked a spot for the LNBP Semifinals.

Capitanes de Arecibo edge Halcones Rojos on the final day of Liga Americas Group D action. The victory propelled the hosts on top of the ladder. Halcones Rojos finished second as both teams advanced into the next round. Roberto Jose Hatton (187-G-76, college: Marist) came up with 23 points to lead the Puerto Rican powerhouse. Capitanes had their backs against the wall and they started the game aggressively. But Halcones Rojos were ready for the challenge. Capitanes managed to eke out just a one-point lead after ten minutes. Latimer knocked down 7 points in the second frame to help Capitanes take a 45:40 halftime lead. The margin grew throughout the third term. The home side accumulated a 64:53 lead with ten minutes to go. Halcones Rojos however showed their character. The Mexican side cut the deficit to a single point 81:82 with under a minute to go. But Roberto Jose Hatton came up with a decisive steal in the final seconds and Capitanes ward off the victory.

Game of Round 3 delayed: Mas Fes-As Sale 81-89 - by Marek KralaThe recent championship bronze medalists African Basketball in Benin were inflicted on his fourth defeat in MAS 7 match with a score of 81-89. DSS has made a good first half time (40-36) with an excellent first quarter time which ended with a score of 24-11, with 13 points Reda. The 3rd quarter was a time of awakening of Protected Belgayd, better defensive efficiency and a progressive success in shooting, and an indoor play performed by the trio Zouita, Najah and the control tower Rhalimi, 56-56 to 3 seconds the end, by a stray bullet Hjira and SSA end on quarter-time on a 3-point shooting of Brandon 20 meters, enough to restore confidence Slaoui needed to reverse the situation. Physically weak (40 minutes of play for Gil Verner, and Bakker Hjira) and diminished by 3 players: Bassim for injury, Daryl Cohen and Paul Patrick for regulatory decision, the Massawa have seen the score reach and exceed gradually during the 4th quarter time.

Hawks' Horford could miss at least two games - by Eurobasket NewsAlfred Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) 's sprained ankle could leave the Atlanta Hawks without two starters for at least two games, but there was no sense of panic Thursday.

The Hawks are confident they can withstand this latest test to the team's depth as they chase Miami in the Southeast Division.

In fact, the Hawks believe their 93-89 win at Miami on Tuesday night was an important indicator they have better depth than the Heat, who have also had a recent rash of injuries.

'I would think that it does,'' Hawks coach Larry Drew said Thursday. 'I think, not trying to compare both teams, the bottom line is any team that loses a player that started, there has to be other players to step up. They have got to elevate their games.''

The Hawks are only two games behind the first-place Heat, who have lost four straight. While Miami has stumbled, Atlanta has won eight of its last 10 despite playing nine straight games without starting forward Marvin Williams.

Horford hurt his right ankle early in the third period against Miami. Mo Evans had 11 points and Jamal Crawford had 19 off the bench against Miami to take pressure off top scorer Joe Johnson.

'We're playing with a lot of confidence,'' Evans said Thursday. 'We've got guys on our bench who are hungry for an opportunity and hungry to prove their worth. We've got a lot of depth and hopefully we'll take advantage of it.''

Horford did not practice Thursday and is listed as doubtful for the next two games, including a home game against New Orleans on Friday. The Hawks play at Charlotte on Saturday.

'The ankle is sore,'' Drew said. 'It sounds like he's going to be day to day. We'll see how he is'' Friday.

Williams continues to recover from a lower back injury. He returned to practice on Thursday and said he felt no discomfort, but he has not been cleared for any contact.

Williams also is doubtful for the next two games.

'From what I'm told, the back maybe still is a little weak,'' Drew said of Williams. 'It's something we want to take our time with. We want him as close to 100 percent as possible.''

The Hawks could open with Evans at small forward and Jason Collins at center against New Orleans. Drew said he expects more minutes from Zaza Pachulia and Josh Powell on the front line.

The injury to Horford provides only the latest in a series of lineup challenges for Drew.

Johnson was out nine games with an elbow injury. Crawford missed six games with back and toe injuries. Evans was out eight games with a sore knee.

The first half of the season has been a dramatic change from the 2009-10 team, which had few injuries and finished fourth in the Eastern Conference with 53 wins before losing in the second round of the playoffs.

'I think this year's team has definitely had a lot more adversity,'' Johnson said. 'Somebody has always been out. I don't know if we've ever been fully healthy to where we're able to play together for a whole week.

'I think we're a lot more mature and it's starting to show out there on the court. We're starting to come together.''

Drew, the former Hawks assistant under Mike Woodson who is in his first season as coach, has stressed defense and more balanced scoring as strengths to help the team overcome injuries.

The Hawks have four players scoring more than 16 or more points per game: Johnson, Josh Smith, Horford and Crawford. Williams and Mike Bibby also have averages in double figures.

'Guys have stepped up big-time,'' Drew said. 'We feel the strength of our ballclub is not just one guy, it's us as a team. When we play both ends of the floor, we're a pretty good ballclub.''

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tyrus Thomas out eight weeks with tear in left knee - by Eurobasket NewsBobcats power forward Tyrus Thomas (6'8''-F-86, agency: Impact Basketball, college: LSU) isn't quite sure how he first suffered an injury to his left knee. But one thing became all too certain after an MRI was done on Thursday: Thomas has a torn lateral meniscus, which will require surgery. He is expected to miss eight weeks.

Its a tough blow to a Bobcats team that had been playing better under new coach Paul Silas. Thomas' knee had been swelling, but still, he was a late scratch for Thursdays game against the Sixers.

Thomas was one of the players who had been playing better since Silas took over, receiving more consistent minutes and operating with a better-defined role. He was averaging 10.7 points and 6.7 rebounds under Silas, and the Bobcats have gone 7-4 when he plays 22 or more minutes. Charlotte really doesnt have a suitable backup power forward who can slide into Thomas slot.

Before the injury, Silas said he was intrigued with the way Thomas could thrive in the Bobcats new up-tempo offense.

Hes the ideal big man for it, because he can get up and down, he can finish at the rim and he can rebound, Silas said. Plus, he blocks shots. He erases a lot of mistakes on the defensive end.

The Bobcats are facing a tough, five-game road trip that starts next week, and the future of the roster could be on the line. Charlotte is firmly in the mix for a playoff spot in the East, but could also choose to pare payroll by dealing either guard Stephen Jackson or forward Gerald Wallace.

With Thomas out and the teams depth weakened, expect the Bobcats trade rumors to start up again soon.

Courtesy of www.sportingnews.com

Carlos Delfino set to return for Bucks - by Eurobasket NewsJust one minute on the court will mean everything to Milwaukee Bucks forward Carlos Delfino (198-G-82).

And that chance could come as soon as Friday night, when the Bucks meet the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena.

Delfino practiced for the first time in more than two months on Thursday, before the Bucks headed to Ohio to face the Cavaliers. He has been sidelined with concussive symptoms since suffering several blows to the head in the first two weeks of the season.

Im pretty optimistic that tomorrow I can be at least on the bench, Delfino said following practice. I dont know if Im going to play, but at least it will be a really good feeling to put the uniform back on and to try to help.

Every single minute I get to play from now to the end of the season is going to be a present for me. For a couple moments, I was thinking I wasnt going to be able to play.

Hopefully I can help. If its 1 minute or 48, I dont care. If I can give a hand, its going to be good. Especially when we have a season full of injuries, if we can get more bodies, its going to be good.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Nets' Troy Murphy asks to be traded after less than one season with team - by Eurobasket NewsTroy Murphy (6'10''-F-80, college: Notre Dame) has played his last game for the Nets.

The Sparta native and Delbarton grad has asked to be traded after less than one season with the team, GM Billy King said, and the team will grant that request. Murphy will be allowed to stay home until the team can find a taker for his expiring $11.9 million contract.

Murphy, 30, was left back in New Jersey last week when the team went on a four-game West Coast trip - the team said he was sick - and he was to have been part of the three-team deal with Denver and Detroit that would have brought Anthony to the Nets. Murphy would have been sent to Detroit, along with Johan Petro, in exchange for Richard Hamilton.

But King said Prokhorovs directive that the team end its pursuit of Anthony means that the entire deal - including the part with Detroit - is dead.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

Thursday: Blazers, Bobcats and Bulls win - by Eurobasket NewsPortland TB - LA Clippers 108-93LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) had 28 points and eight rebounds, Wesley Matthews (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette) added 28 points and the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Los Angeles Clippers 108-93 Thursday night, matching a season high with their fourth straight win. Portland shot 56 percent from the field and went on an 18-6 run to finish the game. Rudy Fernandez (6'6''-G-85) had 17 points and Andre Miller added 15 for the Blazers, who are 11-2 in their last 13 home games. Eric Gordon had 35 points for Los Angeles despite playing with an injured tendon on the ring finger of his shooting hand. Blake Griffin added 20 points and 18 rebounds, and Baron Davis had 16 points. The Clippers had a three-game winning streak snapped. *Courtesy of Yahoo

Charlotte B. - Philadelph.76 100-97D.J. Augustin (5'11''-G-87, college: Texas) scored a career-high 31 points, including four free throws in the final 11 seconds, Gerald Henderson (6'4''-G/F-87, college: Duke) added three big baskets late, and the Charlotte Bobcats beat the Philadelphia 76ers 100-97 on Thursday night. Avenging an overtime defeat to the 76ers four days earlier, the Bobcats won their second straight game the same night they found out forward Tyrus Thomas would be out up two months with a knee injury. Thaddeus Young scored 15 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter for the Sixers, who rallied from an eight-point deficit to take the lead before Henderson hit three consecutive jumpers. Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) added 19 points, but missed a free throw and a jumper in the final minute in Philadelphia's second straight loss. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Chicago B. - Dallas M. 82-77Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) didn't like the way the Chicago Bulls played against the Dallas Mavericks. He was just glad to get the win. Rose scored 26 points on 9-for-28 shooting as the Bulls beat the Mavericks 82-77 on Thursday night in a physical, grinding game. ''A win is a win,'' Rose said. ''Everything that went on in that game was kind of terrible, except the way we played defense.'' Rose, shouldering a larger-than-usual share of the offensive load in the absence of injured forward Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke), was just 5 for 20 in the second half as he tried to spark a sluggish Chicago attack. ''Coach (Tom Thibodeau) was mad because he didn't think I was shooting enough (in the first half),'' Rose said. ''So I just tried to be aggressive in the second half.'' Dallas coach Rick Carlisle was pleased that the Mavericks made Rose work for his points. ''He scored a lot of points, but he had to take 28 shots to do it,'' Carlisle said. ''Our guys worked hard.'' Dirk Nowitzki scored 19 points to lead Dallas, while Jason Terry, Tyson Chandler and DeShawn Stevenson added 12 points apiece. Stevenson took all 10 of his shots from 3-point range, hitting four. Nowitzki started his fourth straight game after missing more than two weeks with a knee injury. *Courtesy of www.comcast.com

Mavs make a move in bid to sign Peja Stojakovic - by Eurobasket NewsThe Dallas Mavericks sent center Alexis Ajinca (7'1''-C-88) back to the team's hotel on Thursday as a possible prelude to a trade that would would enable them to sign veteran forward Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77).

Speaking before the Mavericks' game against the Bulls, Dallas head coach Rick Carlisle said, 'All I can say this point is that Predrag Stojakovic has been waived. We're one of many teams that has interest in him, so we'll see what happens with that.'

'Ajinca is not here tonight because he's inactive. We've sent him to the hotel because there is a possibility that he will be traded. ... Nothing has happened yet and I'm not sure anything is going to happen tonight.'

Stojakovic reached an agreement on a buyout of his contract with the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday, making him a free agent. Stojakovic was acquired from New Orleans in November and played just two games for the Raptors before being sidelined with a knee injury.

Stojakovic had been earning $15 million in the final year of a five-year contract.

Jaime Lloreda signs deal with Atleticos de San German - by Eurobasket NewsAtleticos de San German ensured a serious reinforcement prior to the start of the new BSN season. They brought in Jaime Lloreda (201-F/C-80, college: LSU). The Panamanian power forward is currently playing for Halcones Rojos in Mexico. He averages 15.8 points, 7.5 boards and 1.8 assists per game in LNBP. He also tallies 13.7 points, 7.3 boards and 2.0 assists per game in Liga Americas. Jaime Lloreda had stints in Turkey, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Bosnia, Iran, Panama, Italy, Uruguay, Venezuela and Spain before. Jaime Lloreda participated at the Central American and Caribbean Games in Mayaguez last year. The forward tallied 18.0 points, 14.3 boards, 2.3 assists per game at the tournament. Lloreda also helped Panama to the Bronze medals at the CentroBasket in 2010. His stats read 13.0 points, 9.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per appearance in Dominican Republic. Jaime Lloreda will join San German after the completion of his Halcones Rojos contract.

Capitanes de Arecibo edge Halcones Rojos on the final day of Liga Americas Group D action. The victory propelled the hosts on top of the ladder. Halcones Rojos finished second as both teams advanced into the next round. Roberto Jose Hatton (187-G-76, college: Marist) came up with 23 points to lead the Puerto Rican powerhouse. Capitanes had their backs against the wall and they started the game aggressively. But Halcones Rojos were ready for the challenge. Capitanes managed to eke out just a one-point lead after ten minutes. Latimer knocked down 7 points in the second frame to help Capitanes take a 45:40 halftime lead. The margin grew throughout the third term. The home side accumulated a 64:53 lead with ten minutes to go. Halcones Rojos however showed their character. The Mexican side cut the deficit to a single point 81:82 with under a minute to go. But Roberto Jose Hatton came up with a decisive steal in the final seconds and Capitanes ward off the victory.

Krasnie Krilya returns Andrey Trushkin - by Eurobasket NewsKrasnie Krilya Samara came up with the new signing. The Russian outfit secured a deal for rest of the season with PF/C Andrey Trushkin (207-C/F-81). The 29-year-old player arrives to the club from Triumph Lyubertsy, where he started this season. He appeared 8 times in the league averaging 8.3 points and 5.1 rebounds. He also played 2 games in EuroChallenge adding 22 ppg and 5.5 rpg.Andrey Trushkin already was a member of Krasnie Krilya and it was last season. He played 21 games for the club in Russian league collecting 9.3 ppg and 7 rpg. His numbers dropped to 7.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 15 EuroChallenge games. Before Krasnie Krilya, Trushkin spent one season with Spartak Primorie Vladivostok. In 2007/08, he came to Samara for the first time. Trushkin also has experience from Dynamo Moscow, Ural Great Perm, Universitet Sugut, Unics Kazan and Enisey Krasnoyarsk.

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SAUDI ARABIA

Byron Allen's blog from Saudi Arabia - by Byron AllenLet me start off by introducing myself and my Pro Career overseas thus far. My name is Byron Allen (201-C-81, college: Northwestern St.) and the start of my pro career for the first two seasons overseas was in Taiwan (SBL). It's really a nice and very professional League from every aspect along with some talented guys who has received NBA looks from their offensive skills and IQ. My first season in the SBL I literally helped DaCin, with the support of my teammates, from not even being in the playoffs to taking their first Championship ever in the organization history of 13 years while averaging a double double. By making those accomplishments I received about 5 awards. After, I received several offers to play in other countries, but ended up back in Taiwan for a second competitive and yet challenging season. We got back to the Finals, but lost in Game 6 to a very talented Yulon team with the score being 70-71. We lost by one point when one of their guys made a freethrow with 1.3 seconds remaining... I've never felt so empty in my life after losing a game!

Now I'm spending my third season with Al Ahli Jeddah in Saudi. We started out great with a record of 4-1 on the season, but now we're 4-4 on a 3 game losing streak. I played in our game on Jan 14, after getting a terrible phone call early Jan 13, 2011 3:20am (KSA), because I know my Grandma would've wanted me to give my all. Despite this being a tough and emotional moment of losing a loved one; I played great first half through the man to man/double teams and my teammates made their shots which led to us being up by 6 point on Al Ittihad (#1 team) at halftime. Second half they tripled me for the most part and we missed a few of our shots which good teams capitalize on. We lost by ten points, but it was really a good game... I was also able to dunk on a few guys as well due to good passing from my teammates. I'm leaving the Hotel now to go play Al Hilal so I'll get back with you guys later. Thanks for the extra push to go ahead and start my blog Ryan Holmes. I been holding off on this for a few months now.

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SCOTLAND

National League Round 14: Clark Eriksson Fury hands first loss to undefeated Edunburgh Kings - by Eurobasket NewsThe most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Edunburgh Kings (11-1) in Falkirk on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked Clark Eriksson Fury (11-2) 102-93. It ended at the same time the 11-game winning streak of Edunburgh Kings. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Clark Eriksson Fury has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 11-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Edinburgh K. Defending champion Edunburgh Kings still keep top place with one game lost. Clark Eriksson Fury are looking forward to face East Lothian Buccaneers (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Edunburgh Kings will play against Glasgow (#4) and are hoping to win this game. An interesting game for St.Mirren (10-2) which played road game in Glasgow against one of their biggest challengers Glasgow (9-4). Third ranked St.Mirren managed to get a 10-point victory 79-69. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Glasgow. St.Mirren have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 10-2 record behind leader Edinburgh K. Newly promoted Glasgow keeps the fourth place with four games lost. St.Mirren will play against bottom-ranked Dunfermline Reign (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Glasgow will play against the league's leader Edunburgh Kings (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game between 9th ranked Glasgow Storm (2-10) and fifth ranked Stirling Knights (7-5) in Glasgow on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Stirling outscored Glasgow Storm 94-69. Newly promoted Stirling Knights maintains fifth position with 7-5 record. Glasgow Storm lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with ten games lost. Stirling Knights will meet at home Glasgow Rocks II (#7) in the next round. Glasgow Storm will play against Troon Tornadoes and hope to secure a win.

In the last two games of round 14 Glasgow R. II beat Dunfermline on the road 85-81. Troon Tornadoes won against E.Lothian B. on its own court 76-72.

No shocking result in a game when seventh ranked Glasgow Rocks II (3-9) beat on the road bottom-ranked Dunfermline Reign (1-13) 85-81 on Friday. Newly promoted Glasgow Rocks II maintains seventh position with 3-9 record. Dunfermline Reign lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 13 games lost. Glasgow Rocks II will meet higher ranked Stirling Knights (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Dunfermline Reign will play against St.Mirren (#3) in St Mirren.

An interesting game for St.Mirren (10-2) which played road game in Glasgow against one of their biggest challengers Glasgow (9-4). Third ranked St.Mirren managed to get a 10-point victory 79-69. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Glasgow. St.Mirren have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 10-2 record behind leader Edinburgh K. Newly promoted Glasgow keeps the fourth place with four games lost. St.Mirren will play against bottom-ranked Dunfermline Reign (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Glasgow will play against the league's leader Edunburgh Kings (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.

The game between 9th ranked Glasgow Storm (2-10) and fifth ranked Stirling Knights (7-5) in Glasgow on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Stirling outscored Glasgow Storm 94-69. Newly promoted Stirling Knights maintains fifth position with 7-5 record. Glasgow Storm lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with ten games lost. Stirling Knights will meet at home Glasgow Rocks II (#7) in the next round. Glasgow Storm will play against Troon Tornadoes and hope to secure a win.

Rather expected game when 8th ranked East Lothian Buccaneers (2-9) lost on the road to sixth ranked Troon Tornadoes (6-7) 76-72 on Friday. Troon Tornadoes maintains sixth position with 6-7 record. East Lothian Buccaneers at the other side keep the eighth place with nine games lost. Troon Tornadoes will meet Glasgow Storm (#9) on the road in the next round. East Lothian Buccaneers will play against the league's second-placed Clark Eriksson Fury in Falkirk and hope to secure a win.

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Edunburgh Kings (11-1) in Falkirk on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked Clark Eriksson Fury (11-2) 102-93. It ended at the same time the 11-game winning streak of Edunburgh Kings. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Clark Eriksson Fury has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 11-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Edinburgh K. Defending champion Edunburgh Kings still keep top place with one game lost. Clark Eriksson Fury are looking forward to face East Lothian Buccaneers (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Edunburgh Kings will play against Glasgow (#4) and are hoping to win this game.

Mavs make a move in bid to sign Peja Stojakovic - by Eurobasket NewsThe Dallas Mavericks sent center Alexis Ajinca (7'1''-C-88) back to the team's hotel on Thursday as a possible prelude to a trade that would would enable them to sign veteran forward Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77).

Speaking before the Mavericks' game against the Bulls, Dallas head coach Rick Carlisle said, 'All I can say this point is that Predrag Stojakovic has been waived. We're one of many teams that has interest in him, so we'll see what happens with that.'

'Ajinca is not here tonight because he's inactive. We've sent him to the hotel because there is a possibility that he will be traded. ... Nothing has happened yet and I'm not sure anything is going to happen tonight.'

Stojakovic reached an agreement on a buyout of his contract with the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday, making him a free agent. Stojakovic was acquired from New Orleans in November and played just two games for the Raptors before being sidelined with a knee injury.

Stojakovic had been earning $15 million in the final year of a five-year contract.

Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

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SLOVENIA

Zlatorog adds size with Bozovic - by Zeljko ZuleZlatorog fortified its frontline with the signing of Serbian center Slobodan Bozovic (207-F/C-79) for the remainder of the season. He arrives from Sloga Kraljevo, where he has averaged 16.2 points (2P 72%, 3P 33%, FT 65%, 6.2 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.6 blocks in 13 Serbian League games this season. He ranked sixth in points and tenth in rebounds. Bozovic won Serbian and Montenegrin Championship with Partizan in 2004 and the Cyoprit Supercup with Proteas AEK in 2009. He already played in Slovenian during the 2005-06 as a member of Union Olimpija.

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SOUTH KOREA

South Korean KBL round 32 best performance: Chris Daniels - by Eurobasket NewsAmerican center Chris Daniels (211-C-84) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for KCC Egis, receiving a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 32.The 26-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds, while his team crushed Dongbu Promy (#3, 22-12) with 19-point margin 86-67. KCC Egis maintains the 5th position in South Korean KBL. KCC Egis is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 18-16 record. Daniels turned to be KCC Egis' top player in his first season with the team. Chris Daniels has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (9th best: 17.3ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 10.0rpg) and averages impressive 1.2bpg and 62.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American David Simon (207-C-82) of Anyang KGC. Simon had a very good evening with 29 points and 9 rebounds. Of course he lead Anyang KGC to another comfortable win 75-57 over slightly higher-ranked Daegu Orions (#9, 10-24) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Anyang KGC is still at the dead bottom 10th position. 25 lost games are too many comparing to just ten victories Anyang KGC managed to get this year. Simon is a newcomer at Anyang KGC, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.8ppg (#4). He also registered 9.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Eric Sandrin (206-F/C-78) of Seoul Samsung Thunders (#4). Sandrin scored 24 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Seoul Samsung Thunders, leading his team to a 83-68 easy win against #1 ranked Sonic Boom KT in a game of the week. Seoul Samsung Thunders needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 19 victories and 15 lost games. Sandrin has a very solid season. In 22 games in South Korea he scored 16.8ppg. He also has 7.5rpg and FGP: 56.2%. Eric Sandrin has also South Korean passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

KBL Round 33: Samsung Thunders beat SK Knights in a derby game - by Eurobasket NewsThe most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Seoul: Samsung Thunders (#4) and SK Knights (#7). Samsung Thunders (20-15) crushed visiting SK Knights (15-19) by 19 points 84-65. The game was mostly controlled by Samsung Thunders. SK Knights managed to win fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Samsung Thunders made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game, while SK Knights only scored five points from the stripe. Samsung Thunders had a 29-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) who scored 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Nigel Dixon (205-80, college: W.Kentucky) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) who recorded 12 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Samsung Thunders has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 20-15 record. SK Knights lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 19 games lost. Samsung Thunders are looking forward to face higher ranked Dongbu Promy (#3) in Wonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SK Knights will play at home against Daegu Orions (#10) and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series. Very important is a road loss of third ranked Dongbu Promy (22-13) against sixth ranked LG Sakers (16-17) on Thursday night. Visiting Dongbu Promy was defeated by LG Sakers in a tough game in Changwon 66-72. It was a good game for naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Chris Alexander contributed with 14 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Forward Ho-Young Yoon (198-84) answered with 29 points and 4 steals (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) for Dongbu Promy. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. LG Sakers has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 16-17 record. Dongbu Promy at the other side keeps the third position with 13 games lost. LG Sakers will play against higher ranked KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Dongbu Promy will play at home against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and it may be a tough game between close rivals. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Busan. First ranked Sonic Boom KT faced second-best ET Land Elephants. Host Sonic Boom KT (25-10) defeated guests from Inchon (23-11) 82-69. Jasper Johnson stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds for the winners. The best for the losing side was Jang-Hoon Seo with 23 points and 5 rebounds. ET Land Elephants' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Sonic Boom KT maintains first place with 25-10 record. ET Land Elephants lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with 11 games lost. Sonic Boom KT will meet Mobis Phoebus (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ET Land Elephants will play against KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju and hope to secure a win.

In the last game of round 33 Mobis Phoebus defeated Daegu Orions in Ulsan 80-70.

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Seoul: Samsung Thunders (#4) and SK Knights (#7). Samsung Thunders (20-15) crushed visiting SK Knights (15-19) by 19 points 84-65. The game was mostly controlled by Samsung Thunders. SK Knights managed to win fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Samsung Thunders made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game, while SK Knights only scored five points from the stripe. Samsung Thunders had a 29-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) who scored 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Nigel Dixon (205-80, college: W.Kentucky) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) who recorded 12 points and 5 rebounds and forward Gyasi Cline-Heard (202-79, college: Penn St.) added 9 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Samsung Thunders has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 20-15 record. SK Knights lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 19 games lost. Samsung Thunders are looking forward to face higher ranked Dongbu Promy (#3) in Wonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SK Knights will play at home against Daegu Orions (#10) and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series. Top scorers:SK Knights: K.Hoon Byun 13+2ast, H.Kim 13+2reb+1ast, T.Leather 12+5reb+3ast, G.Cline-Heard 9+8reb+1ast, S.Hwang 8+2reb+3ast, S.Shin 3+1reb+2astSamsung Th.: A.Haynes 22+7reb+4ast, N.Dixon 13+7reb, K.Lee 12, E.Sandrin 11+5reb+3ast, H.Kang 9+4reb+4ast, J.Lee 8+2reb+8ast

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Dongbu Promy (22-13) against sixth ranked LG Sakers (16-17) on Thursday night. Visiting Dongbu Promy was defeated by LG Sakers in a tough game in Changwon 66-72. Dongbu Promy was ahead by 6 points at the halftime before a 41-29 second half run of LG Sakers. They outrebounded Dongbu Promy 32-20 including 20 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. American center Chris Alexander (216-80, college: Iowa St., agency: Priority Sports) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Forward Ho-Young Yoon (198-84) answered with 29 points and 4 steals (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) and American power forward Rod Benson (208-84, college: California) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Dongbu Promy. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. LG Sakers has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 16-17 record. Dongbu Promy at the other side keeps the third position with 13 games lost. LG Sakers will play against higher ranked KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Dongbu Promy will play at home against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Dongbu Promy: H.Yoon 29+3reb+3ast, R.Benson 12+9reb, J.Park 9+1reb+2ast, J.Hwang 9+4ast, B.Park 5+2reb, C.Kwon 2LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 22+8reb+5ast, C.Alexander 14+10reb+2ast, H.Kim 11+4ast, K.Soo Bang 6+1reb, Y.Kim 5+2reb+1ast, S.Cho 3+1reb+1ast

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Busan. First ranked Sonic Boom KT faced second-best ET Land Elephants. Host Sonic Boom KT (25-10) defeated guests from Inchon (23-11) 82-69. The game was mostly controlled by Sonic Boom KT. ET Land Elephants managed to win third quarter 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Sonic Boom KT especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American center Jasper Johnson (201-83, college: Delta St.) stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds for the winners and forward Sang-Oh Park (196-81) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was center Jang-Hoon Seo (207-74) with 23 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Herbert Hill (203-84, college: Providence) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. ET Land Elephants' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Sonic Boom KT maintains first place with 25-10 record. ET Land Elephants lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with 11 games lost. Sonic Boom KT will meet Mobis Phoebus (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ET Land Elephants will play against KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Elephants: J.Seo 23+5reb+2ast, S.Park 9+1reb+1ast, J.Stevenson 9+5reb+1ast, H.Hill 8+8reb+2ast, K.Shin 7+1ast, A.McCaskill 6+2reb+1astSonic Boom KT: J.Johnson 33+6reb, S.Park 19+7reb+2ast, S.Cho 15+3reb+1ast, Y.Song 8+6reb+3ast, S.Park 4+3reb+1ast, D.Cho 3+4reb+2ast

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 9th ranked Daegu Orions' (10-25) home loss to eighth ranked Mobis Phoebus (13-21) 70-80 on Friday. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 10 points. American center Kentrell Gransberry (206-85, college: LSU) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and the former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (182-81) chipped in 18 points. Four Mobis Phoebus players scored in double figures. Mobis Phoebus' coach JaeHak Yoo used entire bench saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American forward Glen McGowan (206-81, college: Pepperdine, agency: Pro One Sports) with 35 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and the former international forward Dong Jun Lee (200-80) scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Mobis Phoebus have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Defending champion maintains eighth place with 13-21 record. Daegu Orions lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with 25 games lost. They share it with Anyang KGC. Mobis Phoebus will meet at home league's leader Sonic Boom KT in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Daegu Orions will play against SK Knights (#7) in Seoul and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Daegu Orions: G.McGowan 35+8reb+3ast, D.Jun Lee 16+8reb+2ast, I.Heo 10+4reb+1ast, Y.Oh 6+3reb, O.George 2+1reb, M.Park 1+4reb+2astMobis Phoebus: D.Yang 18+2reb+2ast, K.Gransberry 13+10reb+4ast, Y.Choi 12+1reb+2ast, J.Kim 10+1reb+1ast, K.No 8+1ast, J.Park 5+2reb+2ast

Basketligan Round 23: #1 Sundsvall Dragons are defeated by Norrkoping Dolphins - by Eurobasket NewsThe most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Sundsvall Dragons (17-5) on the court of fourth ranked Norrkoping Dolphins on Sunday night. Visitors were edged by Norrkoping Dolphins 99-98. It ended at the same time the 13-game winning streak of Sundsvall Dragons. The Dragons trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 35-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 98-99 at the end of the game. Norrkoping Dolphins looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for international guard Anton Saks (200-G-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American-British power forward Randall Hanke (211-84, college: Providence) helped adding 22 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Kelly Grant used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. American guard Alex Wesby (196-80, college: Temple, agency: R.H.Consultancy) responded with 30 points and 5 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field). Defending champion maintains fourth place with 13-6 record. Sundsvall Dragons at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins are looking forward to face KFUM Jamtland (#8) on the road in the next round. Sundsvall Dragons will play against 08 Stockholm (#9) and are hoping to win this game. Important game to mention about took place in Lulea. Sixth ranked Solna Vikings (11-11) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging second-ranked LF Basket (16-7) 86-85 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LF Basket. It was an exceptional evening for American forward William Walker (201-87, college: Bethel (IN), agency: Warren Sports International) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Logi Gunnarsson accounted for 19 points. The former international guard Rudy Mbemba (181-87) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for LF Basket in the defeat. Solna Vikings maintains sixth place with 11-11 record. LF Basket at the other side keeps the second position with seven games lost. Solna Vikings will play against higher ranked Sodertalje Kings (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LF Basket will play against Uppsala Basket and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game in Boras was quite interesting. Fifth ranked Uppsala Basket (12-9) played at the court of 7th ranked Boras Basket (8-15). Uppsala Basket defeated Boras Basket 78-64 on Tuesday. The best player for the winners was Martin Kohlmaier who had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 5 blocks. Christopher McKnight produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts. Boras Basket's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Uppsala Basket maintains fifth place with 12-9 record. Loser Boras Basket keeps the seventh position with 15 games lost. Uppsala Basket will meet at home league's second-placed LF Basket in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Boras Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10) and hope to secure a win. A very interesting game took place in Stockholm. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked KFUM Jamtland (7-15) to ninth ranked 08 Stockholm (6-16) 87-86 on Sunday evening. Demetrius Brown saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds. 08 Stockholm's coach Arild Beck allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. 08 Stockholm maintains ninth place with 6-16 record. KFUM Jamtland lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 15 games lost. 08 Stockholm's next round opponent will be league's leader Sundsvall Dragons on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

In the last game of round 23 bottom-ranked Eco Orebro lost to Sodertalje on the opponent's court 81-95. The most impressive stats of the last round was 16 points and 14 rebounds by Willie Galick of Sodertalje.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Sundsvall Dragons (17-5) on the court of fourth ranked Norrkoping Dolphins on Sunday night. Visitors were edged by Norrkoping Dolphins 99-98. It ended at the same time the 13-game winning streak of Sundsvall Dragons. Sundsvall Dragons trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 35-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 98-99 at the end of the game. Norrkoping Dolphins looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for international guard Anton Saks (200-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American-British power forward Randall Hanke (211-84, college: Providence) helped adding 22 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Kelly Grant used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. American guard Alex Wesby (196-80, college: Temple, agency: R.H.Consultancy) responded with 30 points and 5 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field) and Irish-Australian swingman Liam Rush (202-82) scored 28 points and 5 assists. Four Sundsvall Dragons players scored in double figures. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 13-6 record. Sundsvall Dragons at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins are looking forward to face KFUM Jamtland (#8) on the road in the next round. Sundsvall Dragons will play against 08 Stockholm (#9) and are hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Norrkoping: R.Hanke 22+4reb, A.Saks 18+5reb+4ast, A.Mitchell 15+2reb+4ast, G.Gervin 11+1reb+3ast, C.Grace 10+3reb, F.Drains 9+7reb+1astSundsvall: A.Wesby 30+5reb+3ast, L.Rush 28+2reb+5ast, H.Baeringsson 13+11reb+3ast, J.Sigurdarson 11+1reb+5ast, J.Jeansson 5+5reb+4ast, B.Barton 4+1reb+1ast

The game in Boras was quite interesting. Fifth ranked Uppsala Basket (12-9) played at the court of 7th ranked Boras Basket (8-15). Uppsala Basket defeated Boras Basket 78-64 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Uppsala Basket. Boras Basket managed to win third quarter 19-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Boras Basket 50-37 including a 31-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Uppsala Basket made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was Austrian center Martin Kohlmaier (218-84) who had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 5 blocks. Icelandic swingman Helgi Magnusson (198-82, college: Catawba) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Four Uppsala Basket players scored in double figures. American forward Christopher McKnight (201-87, college: Akron) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and guard Christopher Ryan (196-90) added 21 points and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. Boras Basket's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Uppsala Basket maintains fifth place with 12-9 record. Loser Boras Basket keeps the seventh position with 15 games lost. Uppsala Basket will meet at home league's second-placed LF Basket in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Boras Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Uppsala: M.Kohlmaier 22+12reb, H.Magnusson 12+11reb+3ast, R.Eriksson 11+4reb+4ast, T.Whitworth 11+5reb+1ast, B.Smith 9+5reb+4ast, F.Jonzen 8+7rebBoras: C.Ryan 21+4reb+4ast, C.McKnight 20+12reb, M.Neffati 7+6reb, M.Palm 4+5reb, H.Carlsson 4+1reb+2ast, K.McCoy 4+3reb+5ast

Very expected game when 10th ranked Eco Orebro (4-18) was defeated on the road by third ranked Sodertalje Kings (15-7) 95-81. The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Eco Orebro managed to win fourth quarter 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings forced 22 Eco Orebro turnovers. American guard Johnell Smith (186-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points and 6 assists. Canadian forward Willie Galick (203-87, college: Cal.St. Northridge) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) for the winners. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American-Cape Verdean forward Pedro Cipriano (206-83, college: Southern) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds and the former international guard Andrew Pleick (196-80, college: Lafayette) added 19 points and 5 assists in the effort for Eco Orebro. Five Eco Orebro players scored in double figures. Sodertalje Kings maintains third place with 15-7 record having just two points less than leader Sundsvall. Eco Orebro lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 18 games lost. Sodertalje Kings' next round opponent will be Solna Vikings (#6) on the road. Eco Orebro will play against Boras Basket (#7). Top scorers:Sodertalje: J.Smith 24+3reb+6ast, D.Pita 24+2reb+1ast, W.Galick 16+14reb+1ast, M.Joseph 9+1reb+1ast, A.Chuk 8+1reb+5ast, M.Griskenas 6+1reb+1astEco Orebro: A.Pleick 19+2reb+5ast, P.Cipriano 15+15reb+2ast, J.Andersson 13+2reb, A.Karlsson 12+2reb, O.Lindell 10+6reb+1ast, S.Smith 7+3reb+3ast

A very interesting game took place in Stockholm. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked KFUM Jamtland (7-15) to ninth ranked 08 Stockholm (6-16) 87-86 on Sunday evening. It looked good early as KFUM Jamtland took an 11-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then 08 Stockholm took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 1 point. American forward Demetrius Brown (201-83, college: San Jose St.) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds. Guard Willy Beck (186-87, college: Santa Barbara CC) contributed with 22 points and 7 assists for the winners. 08 Stockholm's coach Arild Beck allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Darius Hargrove (193-82, college: Virginia Union) answered with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and Croatian forward Drazen Klaric (205-80, agency: Court Side) added 22 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for KFUM Jamtland. 08 Stockholm maintains ninth place with 6-16 record. KFUM Jamtland lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 15 games lost. 08 Stockholm's next round opponent will be league's leader Sundsvall Dragons on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Top scorers:08: D.Brown 26+12reb+3ast, W.Beck 22+3reb+7ast, J.Blom 16+8reb+1ast, J.Westerlund 8+2ast, K.Nagwere 7+1ast, F.Odada 5+8rebJamtland: D.Klaric 22+8reb+1ast, D.Hargrove 19+10reb+6ast, B.Salaam 14+2reb+3ast, S.Mjos 11, S.Hellgren 8+3reb+4ast, J.Roenstrom 6

Important game to mention about took place in Lulea. Sixth ranked Solna Vikings (11-11) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging second-ranked LF Basket (16-7) 86-85 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LF Basket. LF Basket was ahead by 14 points at the halftime before a 28-10 third quarter run of Solna Vikings. It was an exceptional evening for American forward William Walker (201-87, college: Bethel (IN), agency: Warren Sports International) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Icelandic guard Logi Gunnarsson (190-81) accounted for 19 points for the winning side. The former international guard Rudy Mbemba (181-87) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and the former international center Johan Akesson (210-84, agency: Warren Sports International) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for LF Basket in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Solna Vikings maintains sixth place with 11-11 record. LF Basket at the other side keeps the second position with seven games lost. Solna Vikings will play against higher ranked Sodertalje Kings (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LF Basket will play against Uppsala Basket and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Solna: L.Gunnarsson 19+3reb+3ast, A.Constantine 17+4reb+1ast, W.Walker 15+12reb+3ast, L.Myrthil 13+3reb+2ast, Y.Merzoug 9+2reb+3ast, J.Leguia 5+6reb+3astLF Basket: M.Pahlmblad 14+4reb+1ast, J.Akesson 14+7reb+1ast, T.Levett 13+9reb, R.Mbemba 12+8reb+7ast, J.Rosendahl 12+1reb+1ast, G.Nystrom 9+5reb+1ast

gschID: 94221

Galick number one in Sweden for round 23 - by Eurobasket NewsCanadian forward Willie Galick (203-F-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Sodertalje Kings, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.The 23-year old player had a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Eco Orebro (#10, 4-18) 95-81. Sodertalje maintains the 3rd position in Swedish Basketligan. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Sodertalje will need more victories to improve their 15-7 record. Galick turned to be Sodertalje's top player in his first season with the team. Willie Galick averages this season 12.7ppg and 6.5rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Demetrius Brown (201-F-83) of 08. Brown had a very good evening with a double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds. It was enough for 08 to edge slightly higher-ranked Jamtland (#8, 7-15) 87-86. 08's 9th position in the standings has not changed. 16 lost games are too many comparing to just six victories 08 managed to get this year. Brown is one of the most experienced players at 08 and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Pedro Cipriano (206-F-83) of Eco Orebro (#10). Cipriano scored 15 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Cipriano's great performance Eco Orebro lost 81-95 to the higher-ranked Sodertalje (#3, 15-7). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Eco Orebro can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 4-18 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Cipriano he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Cipriano has individually a great season in Sweden. After 22 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.3rpg (8th best).

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Savio, United sparkle in RBA league - by Carlos PereiraBy Brown Msyanihttp://www.thecitizen.co.tz

Dar es Salaam. As the Dar es Salaam basketball league gathers pace, Savio and Changombe United are relishing their magnificent start to the regional championship.

The league enters into the third round at the Indoor Stadium this weekend with the two giant teams still unbeaten.Savio, the defending champions, began their title defence quest with a 49-32 victory over Pazi before posting a supremely convincing 75-42 win over PTW in the second game.Changombe embarked on the league with a 77-62 win over Chui and went on to punish Airwing Boys 84-55 last weekend.

In womens league, Lady Lioness and Jeshi Stars are the teams that are highly tipped for the title having established an early lead.The Lioness beat Vijana Queens 67-47 in their second match after being gifted a walkover against CMTU.Defending champions Jeshi Stars clobbered their traditional rivals JKT 51-43 in their opener, and stand a big chance to win their next game.

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TURKEY

Turk Telekom brings in Jerome Randle - by Eurobasket NewsJerome Randle (178-G-87, college: California) is a new player of Turk Telekom Ankara. The American guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Randle started it with Aliaga Petkim averaging 17.5 points and 3.9 assists for them in 15 games. This is his first season as a pro. Jerome Randle graduated last year at the University of California. He was one of their best players with 18.6 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 4.3 apg for 35 games as a senior. Randle was named All-Pac-10 Player of the Year -10. He also was awarded with AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention -10. Jerome Randle played at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament and also at the NBA Summer Leagues in Las Vegas and Orlando. However, he was not able to secure the NBA deal last summer.

Fenerbahce Ulker exploded in the last quarter against Olympiakos (29-12), what allowed them to register very important road win at the beginning of Top 16 phase. The Turkish champ celebrated 70-84 victory and they share the first place in Group H with Valencia, who also won in Round One. Marko Tomas (201-G-85) top-scored for Fener with 19 points and his countrymate Roko-Leni Ukic (195-G-84) added 17 pts. Omer Onan (194-G-78) followed them with 14 points. For the Reds, Thodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77, agency: FCM) came up with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) stopped to 14 pts.Olympiakos was slightly better team in Q1 as they had 18-16 lead. Visitors made 24-27 turn at halfway of the second period and they later jumped to 26-33, but Vassilis Spanoulis and Nesterovic then stepped up for the hosts tying the score to 33-33 until the halftime. Teams exchanged in lead during the entire third period and thanks to Halperin and Spanoulis, the Reds were 58-55 up after it. All after that belonged to Fenerbahce Ulker. First they made 63-64 turn and few minutes later it already was 65-73 for the Turkish champ. Olympiacos kept struggling to score right when it mattered and Ukic capped a game-breaking 0-12 run with a free throw, 65-76. Olympiacos had been scoreless for more than 5 minutes. Visitors managed to stay in control and to keep their lead until the end of the game. In the next round, Fenerbahce Ulker waits Valencia. Olympiakos will go to Kaunas.

Franklin enrolls at Baylor - by David EdoleWACO, Texas-- Freshman guardGary Franklin (187-G) is transferring to Baylor after starting 11 of California's first 13 games this season.

Baylor coach Scott Drew said Wednesday that the California native has enrolled in classes on the Waco campus. The 6-foot-2 guard will have three seasons of eligibility after sitting out the rest of this season and the 2011 fall semester.

Franklin was averaging 8.2 points for California when he said that he was leaving last week. Cal coach Mike Montgomery said he was disappointed but wished Franklin well.

As a senior at Mater Dei High in Santa Ana, Calif., Franklin averaged 17.4 points, 4.0 assists and 4.0 rebounds a game and was the California Interscholastic Federational player of the year.

Since his college career at Georgia State University, the Forward/Centre star has enjoyed a great career playing in all top leagues overseas.

In 2007, Morgan was selected in the First round (pick 12) of the KBL draft by the Mobis Phoebus (South Korea), and averaged 20.1ppg. 9.8rpg, and a league best 5.0bpg.

Morgan has had a great career playing internationally; he has played in Germany, Dominican Rep., Cyprus, Ukraine, Mexico and Japan. His best season came for the ESC Trappes Saint Quentins en Yvelines (France), where he averaged 20.0 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.0 blocks in 15 games.

Morgan played in his first game as a Disciple last night versus the Stone Mt. VOF Hawks. He played minimum minutes but still finished with 6 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks. 'Sylvester is what we need', said Disciple guard Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Atlanta Christian). He has been all over the world and in several NBA camps. He has the game and intelligent to get us back to the championship. But I honestly dont think we will be here the whole season. He's too talented.

Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Atlanta Christian) didn't like the way the GIE Morrow Disciples played against the Hawks in there first meeting (Jan. 7/ loss). Barnes was quoted saying he also didn't appreciate the disrespect the Hawks had for him and his team calling them overrated. Barnes scored a season high 40 points on 17-for-31 shooting as the Disciples beat the Hawks 89-66 on Thursday night in a physical, grinding game. ''We don't have to talk,'' Barnes said. ''When you are man enough to call a guy sorry or a team overrated you better be ready to fight.'' I respect guys like Nick Clark (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Albany St.), Dexter Hall (6'10''-F-78, college: S.Carolina St.) and Eric Duggans (6'0''-G-81). I still believe that Clark is one of the best guards in the UBA but I can't say that about all of them. Barnes scored 12 of his 40 points in the 1st quarter and never let up. This is what happens when you upset a player like JB, said Disciples coach Michael Davis . We are the champs and our guys took offense to what was said. Derrick Stroud (6'8''-F/C-75, college: Indiana St.) had 16 points and new addition Sylvester Morgan (6'10''-C-83, college: Georgia St.) added 6 points and 11 rebounds in 27 minutes of action.

Sylvester Morgan was signed to fill the shoes of Dailey Jermaine (6'8''-F-86, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Ill.-Chicago) who is signed with Yulon Luxgen (Taiwan). We are going to miss Jermaine, said Davis. He is the best forward in the league. I want him to do great overseas but Im still a little selfish about it. But this is what the UBA is all about, helping guys. Dailey left for Taiwan today and will play in his first game Tuesday night.

Nick Clark had 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the Hawks despite playing with an injured back. Duggans added 8 points and 7 assists. The Hawks will face the UBAs top team (Southern Generals) tonight at 8pm.

Dewarick Spencer Back With Budivelnik - by Emiliano Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) one of the best scorers and three point shooters in Europe returned to his Eurocup Top 16 club and first place Ukraine league club Budivelnyk Kyiv. Spencer intends to use the next 10 days to get into game shape and adjust back to his Ukraine club. He will be ready to offer some minutes against his former long-standing French club LeMans in the Eurocup Top 16 battle against them on Budivelnyk Kyiv's home court February 1st. Spencer who was held out by FIBA for the last three months on a cannibus doping suspension said on the Club's official website, 'I made a mistake at the end of the season You make mistakes and you learn from those mistakes. Learn not to make the same mistakes twice.'

Derby aim to extend winning league sequence against Durham - by George ManousidisDerby Trailblazers welcome Durham Wildcats to Moorways for the first time in division one on Saturday night, as they look to extend a two game winning streak in the league. The venue wont however be unfamiliar to the Wildcats, as they have regularly appeared in National finals staged by Derby on behalf of England Basketball, as they continued their recent rise up through the National League structure. That success saw them promoted as division two Champions last season, so it came as something of a surprise when they beat the Trailblazers in their opening league fixture following promotion. Derby were beaten 87-78, despite 18 points from Martyn Gayle (G-89), 16 from the now departed Christopher Page (197-F/C-87, college: Lawrence) and 14 from Sam OShea. The Wildcats were led by 22 points from Paul Elderkin (196-G-87), while Kevin Bulger (190-G-87, college: Columbia) and Paul Nelson (208-C-88, college: Yale) chipped in with 18 points each. Paul Elderkin (196-G-87) is one of two talented siblings whose path into basketball was no doubt inspired by father Dave, who has been involved in basketball in the north east for longer than he probably cares to remember. Both brothers are capable of piling in the points and are among the players highlighted as potential threats by Derbys assistant coach Steve Baxter:We lost a close game to them back in October when we shot as poorly as we had done all season. Since then we have had a number of personnel changes for various reasons, but I think were playing better basketball overall now. We need to do a better job of closing down their outside shooters because last time they hit 12 three pointers which is the highest they have made all season. Conversely we shot as poorly as weve ever done, with the exception of the London Capitals game.Paul Elderkin (196-G-87) is an obvious threat as one of the leagues leading scorers and their two import players perform an effective job for them, but as Ive said before its imperative to keep some of the other players quiet. Michael Davies hurt us badly in the reverse fixture and Mark Elderkin is also a proven threat. We also welcome back local lad Steve Jones who has also been a key player in Durham's rise up the leagues in the last few years.Durham have had a decent start to their first season in Division 1. Dave Elderkin is a good and experienced coach who knows how to get the best out of his players. Ive personally faced Dave's teams from the sidelines for the last four or five years, firstly at Mansfield and now at Derby, so we know quite a bit about how his teams play, he said. Remarkably, this fixture will be Derbys first home game in the league since November 20th and Baxter is keen for the Trailblazers to get back out on court in front of the home fans: Its been a long time since weve had that opportunity. I think particularly after the disappointment of being knocked out of the Trophy at Leeds last weekend it will nice to get back into league action. Six of our next eight league games are at home so we need to put the home court advantage to good use.Unfortunately, we may not be at full strength, as both Matt Shaw and Dave Attewell had to sit out the latter stages of the Leeds game after picking up injuries. We wont know the full extent of those until later in the week. We are still hopeful that they react well to treatment, but its too early to say if they will be available on Saturday.Whether we have them available or not, it will be a tough game. The league is proving to be nail-bitingly tight this season and I think thats a good thing. Apart from Bristol, who havent lost in the league, teams are beating each other every week. As for us, weve now won two in a row and we want to build on that momentum. Our fans havent been given that much to cheer at home this season but hopefully we can change that this weekend, he said.The game is the first of two successive Saturday night home league games for the Blazers, tipping off at 7:30pm at Moorways. The following weekend sees a rearranged fixture against Coventry Crusaders, which was postponed just before Christmas.

All Eyes On Tigers For Weekend Derby Double - by George ManousidisAll eyes will be fixed on the reaction of Mersey Tigers tonight when they take to the floor for the first time since their BBL Cup Final debacle as they try to use their position as league leaders to restore confidence.To add extra spice to the occasion, they don't just make a return to BBL Championship action, they do so against their nearest challengers Cheshire Jets. Not only do they host their derby rivals this evening but they also then travel to Northgate on Sunday to complete a challenging and fascinating weekend double which could have a significant influence on the future direction of the title race.Tony Garbelotto (pictured) is aware he has a fight on his hands to get his team back on track and not least because of the depth of scoring talent available to the Jets,'It is hard to look past Jeremy Bell who is playing MVP basketball and I like Quemont Greer. Plus, the addition of Gareth Murray was an excellent signing for them.'Paul Smith meanwhile as admitted playing the same side twice in three days brings different challenges,'It means you have less time to make adjustments (one practice effectively), so you have to prepare contingencies in advance.'There are a bunch of teams breathing down the necks of the top two and especially Newcastle Eagles and Glasgow Rocks.The Eagles are usually tied up extending their unbeaten home record at Sport Central on a Friday night but this time they will be on the road playing the first of two potential banana skins against struggling duo Prestige Homes MK Lions and Worthing Thunder.They face the Lions at Winterhill this evening with Mike New and his team low on confidence but with the games in hand to turn any kind of upsurge in form into something tangible in terms of play-off positions. However, this is a difficult weekend with the Eagles game followed by a tricky trip to Worcester Wolves on Sunday who face Guildford Heat at home tomorrow night.The Eagles travel to the South Coast tomorrow where Thunder head coach Gary Smith is banking on his team giving the Eagles a hard time . After all, they only lost by a point in the North-East in their last clash when in truth, they missed a glorious opportunity of picking up what would have been a terrific win.Smith said, 'I think the first game the guys were going into the unknown against Newcastle. We were able to player harder for longer periods of time.''In the second game there were more mistakes made but we still continued to play hard and down the stretch we didn't execute on the offensive end.'One of the most interesting games of the weekend could be Glasgow Rocks against UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders who were the form team in the league before being comfortably beaten by Sharks last time out.To truly realise their potential, they have to start winning on the road but there are few tougher places to go than Kelvin Hall looking for a win. The Rocks have been just as hot as the Raiders in the last month and are continuing to lead the chasing pack in the race for pole position in the BBL Championship.Finally when it comes to the importance of results this weekend then what about the match-up at Southend between Essex Pirates and the visiting Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders? Not only are Tim Lewis and his Pirates team still hunting for a first success but Rob Paternostro and his team are almost just as desperate for a victory having lost four games in a row to further highlight just how competitive the BBL Championship is this season.

Cocodrilos finished their Liga Americas campaign with a loud bang. They knocked down Sionista eliminating the Argentinean team from the tournament. Both teams finished Group D action at 1-2 record and failed to reach the next stage. Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) came up with 20 points to lead the Venezuelan team. The teams looked well-matched in the first half. The first period ended in an 18:18 draw. Cocodrilos pulled ahead late in the second term to post a 39:37 lead. Sionista did not allow their opponents to run away as they trailed by a single point heading into the fourth term. But Cocodrilos used a 10:0 run in the fourth term to clear off. Sionista failed to respond and had to surrender at the end. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) tallied 15 points and 15 boards for Cocodrilos. Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84, college: S.Carolina) finished with 9 points in the win. Cleotis Brown (198-G/F-77, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Illinois) produced 24 points for Sionista. Pedro Franco (187-G-81) added 13 points in the loss.

Breakers Sign 3 players for 2011 Season - by Gianni PascucciThe Santa Barbara Breakers have signed 3 players for the upcoming 2011 basketball season. Dante Hunter (6'3''-G-83, college: Calumet), a point guard from Compton, California has agreed to play with the Breakers after being employed in Peru, Honduras and Columbia the past 2 years. He is a 2008 graduate of University of Purdue at Calumet in Gary, Indiana. Hunter averaged 16.3 points per game; 7.2 assists during his most recent stint in Columbia. He will begin play with the team this weekend. Terrence Worthy (5'9''-G-88) is a 2010 graduate of Concordia University of Irvine, California. Worthy has played on several tour teams but this will be his first opportunity with a professional team. He is expected to give the Breakers an up-tempo style of play with his outstanding quickness, ballhandling and playmaking abilities.Samuel Ekwe (6'8''-C), a 2008 graduate of University of Manilla, Philippines will also be playing in the Lynwood Classic this weekend. Ekwe brings great inside presence at both ends of the floor. The 6'9, 255 pounder will be counted on for rebounding and shoring up the Breakers post defense; something they have lacked at the power forward position in 2010.The Breakers will be participating in the Lynwood Classic this weekend in Los Angeles with their first games of the year this Saturday evening followed with two games on Sunday

Huima beat HoNsU in overtime - by Elina KoskinenHuima took a tough win over HoNsU as they visited in Jyvaskyla in Friday evening. Visitors won only by two points in overtime. The final result of the game was 76-78 for Huima. First 15 minutes were really even, but then in the end of the first half and especially in the beginning of the second half visitors seemed to take over the game. Huima led already by 15 points but then HoNsU got back in the game in the fourth quarter and won it 19-12. Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) from HoNsU netted two free throws 6 seconds before the final whistle and game was even 65-65. Again in overtime Huima led the game even though points were scored in turn. Kenya Robinson (182-C-70, college: New Orleans) and Michele Jones (186-F/C-87, college: Cincinnati) guaranteed the victory for Huima. Robinson netted 31 points and took 24 rebounds while Jones finished 25 points and 16 rebounds. Dionne Pounds from HoNsU netted the game highest 33 points, but was the lone scorer of the team.